The Origins of Labor Day

Many associate Labor Day with the end of summer, barbecues, days by the lake and camping with family and friends. While all of these activities are traditions for many Americans of today, it is important remember the original purpose of the holiday.

Labor Day was first held by the Central Labor Union in New York City in 1882. To honor the contributions workers made to America’s success, labor activists pushed for a federally recognized holiday to celebrate them. The day was proposed to highlight the strength of trade and labor unions, as well as a time for workers and their families to enjoy a day of recreation.

In 1887, Oregon was the first state to pass a law that recognized Labor Day. Throughout the years, many more states passed legislation to make Labor Day a holiday in their individual states. It was not until 1984 that United States Congress passed a law to make Labor Day a federal holiday. The act made the first Monday in September legally recognized as the holiday of ‘Labor Day.’

So, this Labor Day, while you celebrate your long weekend with family and friends, take some time to remind yourself of the origins of the holiday.

In observance of the holiday, our offices will be CLOSED on Monday, September 4, 2023