Labor Day Weekend Events in Shawano, Wisconsin

About 58% of Americans say the national economy is getting worse. In the small city in Wisconsin that I live in, I can say that I see financial struggles for many. The real estate market is pathetic. Jobs are very hard to come by. It's hard for much of the population to make ends meet.

This coming Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, I'm sure those who are fortunate enough to have an adequate work station will gratefully celebrate this day. Many will even work on this day. This holiday for workers was first proposed over 100 years ago. Everyone's job is important. It takes the contribution of all workers in order to have economic well-being. This day is not devoted to a certain person, race, or sect. Instead, it's dedicated to the economic achievements of American workers.

There is some argument about who started Labor Day. Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners was said to be this individual. This has been challenged by those who believe Matthew Maguire, a machinist, founded the holiday.

What we do know, is that the first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. In 1884 the first Monday in September was chosen as the holiday. This was the workingmen's holiday. As time went on, more and more states adapted the holiday until the whole nation took part in the celebration. The American worker gives this nation the strength and leadership that we have. It's good to recognize and pay tribute to working America.