Labor Day A Time Of Change and A History of Unrest Here on the Suncoast
While many of us celebrate Labor Day due to the longer holiday weekend for most, family barbecues, and amazing sales – this holiday has a much more storied history. This was a hot hot summer, and we are all looking forward to the cooler days ahead that Labor Day seems to unofficially herald. The official end of summer is less than three weeks away, and we all take this moment to reset as we are ready to head into the fall and holiday season ahead. Take a moment, though, to refresh on the history of this holiday.
Labor Day History
According to the Department of Labor: Observed the first Monday in September, Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers. The holiday is rooted in the late nineteenth century, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.
Before it was a federal holiday, Labor Day was recognized by labor activists and individual states. After municipal ordinances were passed in 1885 and 1886, a movement developed to secure state legislation. New York was the first state to introduce a bill, but Oregon was the first to pass a law recognizing Labor Day, on February 21, 1887. During 1887, four more states – Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York – passed laws creating a Labor Day holiday. By the end of the decade, Connecticut, Nebraska and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday.
That is a lot of history, but as we all know, that has been following minimum wage, work from home, and other labor debates in recent years – work is a big topic of our lives. Down to today, labor unions, wages paid, protected classes or statues of workers, and so many other labor topics are highly debated in this country and right here in Florida. Most of us need jobs to continue to live the lifestyles we wish, so staying abreast of current labor trends on a day.
Labor Day Activities on Suncoast
Now that we’ve had our history lesson let’s get down to some fun. If you are looking for some fun activities for your friends and family here on the Suncoast, we have you covered.
- Picnic – Invite the kids, neighborhood, or pretty much anyone. Enjoy some wonderful recipes we compiled HERE.
- Beaches – from Manatee to Sarasota, Anna Maria Island to Clearwater Beach, there is one close to you for a dip in the water and fun for the entire family.
- Hike – Get out and take a day-long trip to some of the best natural beauty spots up and down our coast.
- Volunteer – Many organizations up and down the Gulf Coast need support this Labor Day and beyond. Make plans to help as a family or just yourself for a great overall feeling giving back to those in need, human or fur babies here on the Suncoast.
- Read – rest and relax is the name of this holiday. Need some help loading up your Kindle or picking up a paperback to enjoy – check out this list.
No matter what you are doing this Labor Day weekend, please be safe. Traffic will be hectic, and beaches will be busy. Staying vigilant, sober, and alert during these heightened, crowded times at certain venues will ensure you have a wonderful holiday. Enjoy the time off from your labors, and bring on the cooler weather!
Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos