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THE NATIONAL LABOR DAY
W
e often see some folks throw parties and festivals to celebrate the end of summer vacation on the first Monday in September, while mixed reactions trail several others because the end signifies that school activities would soon resume. So, what’s the idea behind this celebration? It’s called National Labor Day. National Labor Day is one of the most celebrated days in the United States of America because of its significance. The day is designated to celebrate and reflect on the contributions the American workers have made to society. The United States and most countries celebrate National Labor Day on the first Monday of September, while other countries choose another day to celebrate the event. 124
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WHY DO WE HAVE NATIONAL LABOR DAY? Every worker has reasons to celebrate National Labor Day. If you are not going to work on Saturdays or spending 18 hours in your workplace every day, it’s thanks to the years of battles fought by American employees and Labor Unions a century ago. At the peak of the Industrial Revolution, the average American employee spent 12 hours a day at work and worked seven days a week to earn a living. These people mainly comprise poor immigrants and black employees. Adults and children as young as five worked at fields, mines, and several mills. These children earned a more meager living than the adults. The workers faced harsh working conditions, with THE POWER IS NOW MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2021
