Washminster

Washminster
Washminster

Monday 6 September 2010

Labor Day

A Happy Labor Day to all of Washminster's American readers. (and Happy Labour Day to our Canadian readers) We Brits have already said goodbye to the summer - last Monday was our final Bank Holiday before Christmas.

Labor Day was, according to the US Department of Labor - "a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country." The first Labor Day parade was held in 1882 - and the Library of Congress describes it - "After marching from City Hall, past reviewing stands in Union Square, and then uptown to 42nd Street, the workers and their families gathered in Wendel's Elm Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches. This first Labor Day celebration was eagerly organized and executed by New York’s Central Labor Union, an umbrella group made up of representatives from many local unions."

The day is treated as the symbolic end of summer - and is followed by the start of the political season (when was the 'close season' this year?) and the NFL American Football Season (the first regular game of the season is between the Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints at 8.30pm ET this Thursday)

Hope you'll be following Washmister in the new political season - and do pass on the link to your friends