118 Years Later

The first official Labor Day in 1894 was all about working conditions in a era where many Americans (some as young as 6 or 7) worked 12-14 hour days for meager wages. Now, 118 years later, many also see the holiday as a way to celebrate the end of summer.

Over those 118 years many things have changed, but some things remain. In the late 1800s many workers were employed in manufacturing and industrial type jobs, but even then they were searching for a common purpose, a feeling of unity, communication from their managers, equality, fair wages and respect. 

Working conditions then were so horrible that workers began organizing strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and compel employers to renegotiate hours 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.  
But, it was not until 12 years later, in the wake of a strike by the workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago that created massive unrest; that Congress attempted to repair ties with American workers and passed an act making Labor Day a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and all the territories. 

As you end summer with a Labor Day celebration, reflect on the history of American workers  -- we've come a long way, but improving your relationship with your people, or helping your people improve is still at the heart of what makes businesses excel. If you need assistance. We can help!