Why is Labor Day Celebrated in September?

Labor Day is one of the most important federal holidays in the United States. Labor Day is observed annually on the first Monday of September. American and Canada celebrate Labor Day on the same day while many other countries in the world celebrate Labor Day on May 1. But why is Labor Day celebrated in September? Read on to know 

Why Do Americans Celebrate Labor Day?

Americans celebrate Labor Day to honor the workers and to pay tribute to the American movement. The industrial revolution, child labor, and injustice to Laborers were at their peak in the 1800s. Many American’s even worked for more than twelve hours a day. Historians say, Peter J. McGuire, General Secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners came up with the idea of Labor Day. There is still a debate about the person who actually created this day. Many believe that Mathew Maguire, NJ machinist and vice-presidential nominee of the Social President of America was the creator of Labor Day. However, the main motto of celebrating Labor Day was to provide a day of rest for all the working people and to celebrate their achievements.  

May Day vs Labor Day

Both May Day and Labor Day are celebrated to honor the workers. Many countries around the world celebrate Labor Day on May 1 whereas America and Canada celebrate on the first Monday of September. Nearly 80 countries around the world celebrate Labor Day on May 1 to honor the people who lost their lives in the Chicago Haymarket affair. The Haymarket Affair is the symbol of the international struggle for workers’ rights. The workers were striking for an eight-hour workday, the protest began as a peaceful rally but later police killed one and injured many workers. During the protest, an unknown person threw a dynamite bomb which resulted in seven police officers and four civilians’ death. In short, Labor Day is to honor the contributions of American workers and the American Labor Movement whereas Labor Day is celebrated to celebrate workers and to honor the people who lost their lives at the Haymarket Affair.  

Labor Day America

Labor Day in America is celebrated with parades to show the strength and hard-working spirit of the workers. This day is also observed by celebrating it with barbecues, fireworks, picnics, public arts, and sporting events. Labor Day also marks the end of the summer and also comes with a three-day weekend so many Americans go for a picnic with their families. Labor Day also indirectly signifies the end of peak hot dog season.