Michelle Wilson On Labor Day 2017

In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation declaring the first Monday in September to be Labor Day. Today, this holiday is linked more to the unofficial end of summer, the beginning of the school year or the start of football season. What has been forgotten about this long weekend is that it celebrates American workers’ contributions to our society.

Each year, families gather together for backyard picnics, dips in the pool or simply enjoying a little rest and relaxation. Unfortunately, it’s easy to lose focus on the meaning of Labor Day when you’re trying to live out one more day of summer vacation with the kids.  However, on this Labor Day, let us try and remember why this holiday even exists.

The notion of celebrating the American worker first surfaced in the early 19^th century during the infancy of the American labor movement. Unfortunately, it took a nationwide railroad strike of nearly 4,000 factory employees -- the 1894 infamous Pullman strike -- to get things started. Those workers began a wildcat strike in response to reductions in wages. In the end, 30 people were killed at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S marshals, and striker violence caused $80 million in damages. In an effort to conciliate organized labor after the strike, President Cleveland and Congress joined forces to declare Labor Day a national holiday. This would begin more than a century of recognition and homage to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well-being of our nation.

Today, more than ever, we must remember to celebrate the hard-working men and women of all races, colors and creeds for their commitment to the exceptional American work experience. This is especially true under the difficult and challenging economic conditions of the past decade. American workers continue to lead the world in productivity, as they work longer hours than their global counterparts. American workers continue to strive and build the highest standard of living in the world, and they often do so without recognition or praise. I believe in our American workforce and so should you.

As Executive Director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations, I am honored to oversee our team of dedicated individuals who remain committed to serving workers and businesses across the Sunshine State. This team of hardworking state employees strive each day to ensure that Florida workers are treated fairly, are given access to all employment opportunities and are not subject to unlawful discrimination.

As we look forward to this long weekend, let remember the many successes of the American worker and the critical roles they continue to play in making this a great nation.

Michelle Wilson, Executive Director
Florida Commission on Human Relations