Labor Day is a U.S. national holiday held on the first Monday of every September, meaning this year it falls on September 4th.
Aside from shopping or barbecuing, Labor Day is without rituals. For the most part, the day merely marks the last weekend of summer and the start of school. However, the day was originally intended for something altogether different. The holiday’s purpose and meaning extend beyond an end-of-summer celebration; it was created to unify union workers and reduce work time.
History of Labor Day
Back in 1882, the first Labor Day took place in New York City under the direction of the city’s Central Labor Union. At this time, unions were weak because they were largely divided and consisted of only a small fraction of the workforce. As such, the Central Labor Union and other organizations sought to unite the small unions so that they could achieve more power and influence. By bringing the unions together, the first Labor Day organizers believed that workers – no matter their industry or job type – could come together and recognize their common interests – the common interest being too much time on the job.
In the 1830s, the average manufacturing worker put in 70-hour weeks. Though the 70-hour workweek was reduced in 1890, workers still put in long hours, totaling 60 hours per week. Instead of working 9 or 10 hours seven days a week, union organizers focused on getting 8-hour work days for six days a week. They also wanted to get workers more days off, such as the Labor Day holiday.
However, there was one problem: neither the government nor any company recognized the first Monday in September as a day off work. In response, the organizers declared a one-day strike in the city. All participants marched in a parade and then adjourned together afterward for a picnic. The event was described by the New York Tribune as a long political barbecue with “rather dull speeches.” So yes, barbecues are an integral component of the holiday, but don’t forget the reason behind the barbecue!
Celebrate the Meaning of Labor Day
Remember and thank the men who worked tirelessly to give us 40-hour work weeks. We have weekends thanks to them! And though the issue that inspired this holiday may seem resolved, the problem is coming back, likely due to technology. Instead of unplugging after a hard day’s work, workers stay connected. This is especially a problem for highly skilled white-collar workers. Use Labor Day as a time to reflect on your working habits. If you work all the time and never take a vacation, start a new ritual that honors the original spirit of Labor Day. In the words of Donna Meagle from Parks and Recreation, “Treat yo self.” Give yourself the day off – a real day off, meaning you’re disconnected from any work devices. Shut it all off – your phone, computer, tablet, etc. Enjoy some time with your friends and family without any distractions while barbecuing like the original participants did over a century ago!
Reclaiming Work-Life Balance
As we celebrate Labor Day, it’s crucial to reflect on the progress made in workers’ rights and acknowledge the ongoing challenges in today’s work environment. The original purpose of the holiday—to unite workers and address overwork—remains relevant, especially as technology has blurred the boundaries between work and personal life.
In recent years, studies have shown that the average American worker struggles to fully unplug, with many checking emails or taking calls after hours. Remote work, while offering flexibility, often extends workdays as employees feel compelled to remain constantly accessible. This “always-on” culture can lead to burnout, a problem that undermines both productivity and personal well-being.
Labor Day provides an opportunity to press pause and reconsider what work-life balance means in the modern world. Reflect on how far we’ve come—from 70-hour workweeks in the 19th century to the 40-hour standard today—and consider ways to preserve and improve those hard-fought rights. Whether it’s setting clear boundaries for after-hours communication, taking a mental health day, or ensuring you use your vacation time, small changes can have a big impact on overall well-being.
So, as you fire up the grill or relax with loved ones this Labor Day, honor its roots by making a commitment to yourself. Disconnect, recharge, and remember that the holiday is about more than just marking the end of summer—it’s about valuing your time and recognizing the efforts of workers who made these moments possible.
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This article was updated on 12/12/24.
