Labor Day originated from a labor union strike in 1894 which was put forward by the American Railway Union. At that time, railroad workers were pushing for shorter working hours and better pay. This strike, spearheaded by Eugene V. Debs, resulted in a nationwide shutdown of major railroads for nearly two months, forcing the U.S. Congress to recognize Labor Day as a national holiday.
This year, the labor movement has gained strength and recognition, thanks in large part to the ongoing “Fight for Fifteen” campaigns of recent years that have resulted in numerous new union contracts and minimum wage increases. Strikes and protests held this past June aimed for racial justice in the workplace, with unions such as United Farm Workers (UFW) and UNITE HERE leading the call.
At the same time, companies such as Amazon, McDonald’s, and Disney, have come under fire for poor wages and labor conditions, leading workers to organize and stand up for their rights. In many cases, conservative or anti-union forces have stood in opposition.
But there’s good news. This Labor Day is especially meaningful because worker power and organizing has gained real traction. New union contracts have been negotiated and workplace conditions are improving in many businesses. Labor groups have had some success, such as the recent victory of 11,000 Amazon workers in Alabama who voted to unionize and gain access to better pay and benefits.
The fight for worker rights and labor justice is still far from over. However, Labor Day this year is cause for celebration. It’s a reminder of how important it is to stand together in solidarity for the rights and dignity of all workers.
