LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- America’s Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September every year and 2023 is certainly not an exemption.
Labor day in the United States of America, is a celebration to honour the labour movement and the contributions that workers have made in the society.
The celebration, which kick starts during the weekend, through to Monday, involves countless Americans hitting the road to engage in fun activities like, hunting for shopping deals, enjoying a visit to the beach and speeches by officials and dignitaries.
How Did America Come About Labour Day?
The idea emerged in 1882 when the unions of New York City decided to have a parade to celebrate their members.
Labor Day originated during a dismal time for America’s workers, who faced long hours, low wages and unsafe conditions.
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As Labor unions and activists advocated and fought for better treatment for workers at the height of the Industrial Revolution, the idea came to establish a day dedicated to celebrating the members of trade and labor unions, according to History.com.
The day, however, became a national holiday in 1894 when President Grover Cleveland signed a law passed by Congress designating the first Monday in September a holiday for workers.
Till the present day, Americans continue to celebrate Labor Day with parades and parties, festivities, outlined in the first proposal for a holiday, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
America’s Labor Day was marked yesterday, 4 September, with parades and speeches by elected officials and community leaders who emphasize the economic and civic significance of the holiday.