Labor Day explained: history, origins, and Why it's celebrated in September
Labor Day, celebrated on the first Monday of September, honors the American labor movement. Discover the history of this federal holiday, its origins, and how it's observed.
While the celebration of workers' rights is typically celebrated on May 1st around the world, in the U.S. "Labor Day" is traditionally celebrated in September, and is more than just a long weekend at the end of the summer.
The federal holiday came in place as a way to celebrate and honor American labor movement and its key role to improve working conditions.
When is Labor Day?
Labor Day is celebrated nationwide the first Monday of September on every year. This day of rest and recognition for American workers can trace back its origins to the 19th century during the height of the Industrial Revolution.
Back then, the working conditions were harsher and labor unions were just getting started as a response to the growing demand for better hours and pay.
The origins of Labor Day
During the Industrial Revolution, workers fought for better working conditions, particularly in industries like textiles, railroads and steel. The holiday was first celebrated on September 5, 1882, with a parade in New York City organized by the Central Labor Union.
The parade was intended to bring national attention to the working class and how they contribute to the country. After the success of New York's parade, other states soon followed, Oregon being the first one to state Labor Day as an official holiday in 1887. Seven years later, President Grover Cleveland, would turn it into a federal holiday.
Why is Labor Day in September?
International Workers' Day, or May Day, is celebrated on May 1st across the world, but the United States opted for a different date. While it may not seem like much, the choice was deliberate.
The September date was considered much more neutral, politically speaking, as it distanced itself from the "radical" connotations of May Day, which often involved strikes. As it is, it also provided a much more needed relief between Independence Day in July and Thanksgiving in November
