Happy Labor Day

Labor Day is on Monday, September 2nd. Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and is traditionally observed the first Monday in September. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a Federal holiday in 1894. Labor Day also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans, and there are parades and celebrations.

Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated during one of American labor history's darkest chapters.
At the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, in the late 1800's the average American worked 12 hour days and seven day weeks in order to eke out a basic living. Despite restrictions in some states, children as young as 5 or 6 worked in mills, factories and mines across the country.
People of all ages often faced extremely unsafe working conditions, with insufficient access to fresh air, sanitary facilities, or breaks.  
 
Labor Unions grew more prominent and vocal. They began organizing strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and compel employers to negotiate hours of work and pay. On September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first Labor Day Parade in U.S. history.  
 
Please enjoy your Labor Day weekend. Try to celebrate our achievements with other brothers and sisters at an event. Here are a few Labor Day Parades in New York State:  
 
New York City, Saturday September 7th
Albany, Friday September 6th.
Syracuse, New York State Fair, Monday September 2nd
Buffalo, Monday September 2nd
Massena, Monday September 2nd