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There is still some disagreement about the history of Labor Day and when it was first observed as a holiday for workers.
Some historians believe that Peter J. McGuire was the first to suggest a day in honor of workers. He was the general secretary to the Brotherhood of Carpenters and
Joiners, and he was also the co-founder of the American Federation of Labor.
Others believe it was Matthew Maguire, who was a
machinist, that founded Labor Day. He was secretary to the Central Labor Union of New York, and they had adopted a proposal for Labor Day and even appointed the committee to plan for a picnic and a demonstration about the day.
Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September, and it is a tribute to worker’s contributions to our country, recognizing that they made it strong and prosperous.
The very first Labor Day was on Tuesday, September 5th, in 1882. And two years later the second Monday in September was selected as the official
holiday. By 1885, it was celebrated by many industries throughout the country, recognizing it as the working man’s holiday. The celebration was to exhibit a parade to symbolize the strength of trade and labor organizations, and following was to be a festival with recreations and amusements for laborers and their families. As there was an emphasis on the economic and civic significance of Labor Day, speeches were given by some prominent figures in the communities.
Today, more recognition of the working man is expressed by government officials, educators, and union officials, among others, with coverage on television, radio, and in newspapers nationwide.
Share
the Labor Day
History with your
kids as a bedtime
story.
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