5
2011
HAPPY LABOR DAY, FROM THE ASBESTOS LEGAL CENTER!
Below are some fun facts about the history behind Labor Day:
1. Labor Day is Canadian Export to the United States.
Most Americans consider Labor Day a uniquely American experience, but in all reality, Labor Day originated in Canada. Stemming from 1870’s labor disputes in Toronto, in 1872 a parade was held in support of a strike against the 58 hour workweek. As a result, 24 union leaders who were responsible for organizing the event were arrested under anti-union laws.
2. The first US Labor Day observance was in the form of a parade over one hundred years ago.
The first US observance of Labor Day came in the form of a parade. Sponsored by the Central Labor Union, On September 5th, 1882 ten thousand workers paraded through New York City. This is commonly considered the first observance of Labor Day in America.
3. What caused the first U.S. Labor Day March?
What caused ten thousand workers to parade through NYC? A 12 hour workweek! In the late 19th century, the average working day consisted of 12 hours. Held on a Tuesday, the first Labor Day rally was held in order to gain support for the 8 hour workday.
4. Oregon first to declare Labor Day an official holiday!
In February of 1887, the great state of Oregon was the first in the Union to pass law making Labor Day and officially recognized holiday.
5. What President made Labor Day a National Holiday?
Making Labor Day an official national holiday as part of his political campaign, in 1894, President Grover Cleveland made good on his promise, and signed a law making Labor Day an officially recognized US holiday.
6. Do other countries celebrate Labor Day?
Although Labor Day hails from Canada and the US, a large number of industrialized nations around the world celebrate Labor Day as a time to respect and reflect upon workers around the world. While not all celebrate it at the beginning of summer, the concept is similar, and is sometimes celebrated in combination of May Day.
The Asbestos Legal Center is proud to represent and fight for American Workers occupationally exposed to asbestos. If you or a loved one is suffering from an asbestos related illness, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you can contact the Asbestos Legal Center at 1(800)-970-DUST(3878). Or you can find us online at www.asbestoslegalcenter.org
