On Sept 12th, people all across the country celebrated Labor Day, an annual holiday that recognizes the achievements of American workers. With the day off from school, students took the opportunity to travel and spend time with friends or family.
Before Labor Day was an official holiday, it was recognized by many labor activists and states. Over time, news of the holiday spread, and by 1894, Congress passed the act to make it a federal holiday, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
“I think Labor Day is a very special holiday because it gives me the chance to recognize and realize all the work that people do in our country, ” senior Maddy Aldecoa said. “I also love how it gives us a break from school for a day so that we can spend time with friends and family,”
The plan submitted to the government in 1882 stated that one way to celebrate Labor Day was to hold large festivities and street parades to demonstrate the strength and spirit of American workers. This form of celebration is still present in our modern celebrations, with many Americans hosting parties. In addition to festivals, the holiday has also become an opportunity for speeches relating to rights and stories of American workers.
“I enjoy Labor Day weekend because I love hanging out with my friends and having a long weekend at the start of school,” sophomore Wren Walton said. “I don’t do anything specific for Labor Day, but I appreciate the behind history it,”
In honor of Labor Day, schools and many workplaces take the day off, creating time for friends and family to spend time together. With this long weekend, many people chose to travel, spend time with friends or family, or just stay at home and enjoy the break, according to junior Winnie Chun.
“This year, I celebrated Labor Day with my family in Yosemite,” Chun said. “I love the long weekend because it gives us a chance to relax and take a short break in the beginning of the school year,”
For many, Labor Day is considered the last vacation or ‘getaway’ of summer as the fall season nears. Popular festivities during this time include barbecuing, picnicking, and parading, according to Aldecoa.
“Every year I have such a great time celebrating Labor Day with my family,” Aldecoa said. “Since the weather was so warm, this was the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and honor the holiday.”
