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Every year, schools in the United States are closed on a Monday in early September. The special day—this year, it’s September 6—is called Labor Day.

Labor Day was created to celebrate American workers. Millions of people have the day off that day to relax and spend time with their families.

The first Labor Day celebration was held in New York City on Tuesday, September 5, 1882. In 1894, Congress passed a law declaring the first Monday in September a national holiday to honor American workers. The day was to be filled with parades, speeches, and picnics.

Today, Americans take the day to pay tribute to the workers who create goods and services that we all use.

“For some, Labor Day has come to mark the end of summer and the start of a new school year.  But it really is more than that,” U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis told Weekly Reader. Her job is to make sure workers are treated fairly and have safe workplaces. “Unlike any other American holiday, Labor Day doesn’t recognize any particular group, faith, event, individual, or battle.  It honors work.  And it honors workers—like teachers, librarians, carpenters, police officers, and firefighters … all the people who make our country so great.”

Secretary Solis has a special message this Labor Day for Weekly Reader readers. “If you have a question about work, or want to share a favorite Labor Day memory, or tell me about someone whose work is making a special impact in your life, email me at talktosolis@dol.gov.  I’d love to hear from you,” Secretary Solis says. “And have a happy and safe Labor Day!"
 

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Think About It:

What kind of job would you like to have one day?

Web Link:

What Do You Like? (Bureau of Labor Statistics)