The Great American BBQ and the Meaning of Labor Day
Labor Day is one of the most truly American Holidays. This year marks our 125th Labor Day celebration in the United States. Labor day is often referred to as the “unofficial end of summer,” with BBQ’s, get-togethers, and fireworks to celebrate the end of good weather.
But where did Labor Day originate from? Why would anyone celebrate labor in the first place?
Let’s take a short look at the origins of Labor Day!
– Labor day became a national holiday in 1894, when President Grover Cleveland signed the Labor Day Bill into law. The first Labor Day was actually celebrated in New York City in 1882 under the Central Labor Union’s direction to the city.
– Labor Day is a day dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers and the work and sacrifices that these workers make.
– Labor day was initially a strike movement by unions and workers for shorter working days and less days working. In the 1830s, workers in manufacturing worked 70-hour work weeks on average. in 1890, that hour had only dropped slightly, to 60 hours a week. These long working hours were what sparked the protests with unions to create Labor Day. What was supposed to be a protest turned into a parade and BBQ, with “long boring speeches” at the end. From there, Labor day evolved into a national holiday of sorts. While federal workers are given the day off, many states must elect whether or not to observe Labor Day. Private employers and necessary programs often opt to work Labor Day, especially in service industries.
So, what can you do to celebrate Labor Day the way it was originally intended?
-Minimize your trips out or host your own BBQ. Give your fellow workers a break by avoiding stores, shops, and restaurants on Labor Day. If do you choose to shop locally, then be sure to thank those people who are working on Labor Day!
-Leave your cell phone on silent or off. Many workers feel the need to be glued to their phones, even during off time. By taking Labor Day to rest, you honor the original intention behind the holiday and your hard work.
-Invite your friends together for the day off and enjoy the day free from work.
For more fun tips, recipes, and fun games for your Labor Day BBQ, check out my Pinterest Page! Or click here to contact me to see houses before the end of Summer!
Have a Happy and safe Labor Day!
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