Labor Day

Pause today to celebrate Labor Day, "a creation of the labor movement" and "dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country." 

(Source: US Department of Labor)

This year marked the 100th anniversary of the Department of Labor, created by President William Howard Taft.

Among many other benefits, most American workers can thank the labor movement for weekends without work, the 8-hour workday, workplace safety laws, and laws outlawing discrimination in the workplace.

Whether or not you are a fan of the labor movement and labor unions often depends on whether or not you belong to one.  Whichever position you may have, take time today to contemplate the issue from a different perspective. Thoughtful contemplation and discussion are much more fruitful than the alternatives.

Labor Day Parade, Union Square, New York, 1887.
Robert N. Dennis collection of stereoscopic views.
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