Labor Day Learning

Happy Labor Day, America!

Labor Day has always been a holiday I think of fondly. As a kid, it meant going to Labor Day family camp, celebrating a family member's birthday, and most importantly--getting a long weekend off of school when it had only just begun for the year. (I always found this early day off very helpful as a way to re-acclimate to the school-year schedule.)

I guess I've always known that Labor Day is a holiday to celebrate workers, but I really didn't know much about it beyond that, so I visited the Department of Labor website and learned a little bit more about Labor Day's history and evolution as a national holiday.

Here are some highlights, for those of you who don't want to expend energy clicking links or learning on your day off, either:

• Labor Day was first celebrated in 1882 in New York City.
• It became a national holiday in 1894.
• The day used to be celebrated with parades and public events, but this practice declined over time. (Maybe it was just too much work?)
• Celebratory speeches are still broadcast (who knew?) in honor of the day, by elected officials, union leaders and others.

Bottom line: the working people of our country deserve a day off now and again, particularly one designated to honor and respect all of our contributions to the nation's economy and lifestyle.

We work hard, so today it's time to play. Rest, relax, enjoy some time to yourself or with friends and family. Happy Labor Day!