On Labor Day, we celebrate the achievements of American labor. On this Labor Day, we wish there were more Americans with jobs. We wish that our federal government could see its way to make it law that companies pay (barely) living wages. I'd pay an extra $1 so that a fast food employee could go off food stamps. Actually, I've read that I'd only need to pay an extra five cents to ensure a decent hourly wage for many low-paid employees.The first Labor Day celebration was in New York City on September 5, 1882. The legislature of New York had considered a bill to establish a regular holiday, but Oregon was the first to pass it on February 21, 1887. First proposed as “a street parade to exhibit to the public the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations,” Labor Day became an official U.S. holiday in 1984, when Congress made the first Monday in September a federal holiday.
Today, Labor Day seems entwined with family, friends, food, and festivities. I'll be thinking about all of the people without jobs - especially accomplished people my age who face age discrimination. It's a difficult time for many Americans and a good time to think about how everyone can help. Can't we put the country back to work in decent jobs? Do we have to outsource all that customer service work? Does anyone enjoy trying to explain a telephone problem to someone on the other side of the world?
Let's remember its purpose. Happy Labor Day!
Update: I spent my whole day cleaning, which was hard labor - much harder than my regular work. As a result, I wasn't able to write an afternoon feature. I'm sorry, but I do feel freed of some clutter.
Photo courtesy of bilerico.com
I just happened to be here when you posted this, but Charleston Girl please understand I have a girl crush on you at this moment. There never seems to be enough love for labor and work in the US. Kudos for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Trishb!
ReplyDeleteThis seems like a perfect moment to tell you how much I appreciate your blog. I value your opinion and reading your experiences with brands and products has certainly added value to my own collection.
ReplyDeleteI hope you can and will give yourself some 'you-time' after all your hard labour.
Kind regards from
Marja
Happy Labor Day, CG. It sounds as if you accomplished quite a lot today. Good for you!
ReplyDeleteIt is sad that age discrimination is a horrible reality in our society. We still possess skills and wisdom to do a job and to do it well. Being given that chance though, is the most difficult hurdle to overcome. Hopefully, things will improve in the near future.
I really appreciate your comments today, of this blog post. Age discrimination is big time issue here in Canada. My neighbour complains that the younger generations are ruthless at work. She, is in her 50's.
ReplyDeleteOur country is taking in more and more new immigrants that have a lot of money and get good paying jobs handed to them. This must be accepting skilled people, but companies refuse to hire Canadians presently here to do the job.
Canadians that are first, second or more generations can't get jobs, or get only low paying.
Mafia business is running strong here.
Lets not go into manners and respect...
I had to laugh, I spent my day cleaning as well but really things needed dusting and the perfume bottles were all over the place.
ReplyDeleteIt would be nice if we all made good wages, especially to pay back those lovely student loans. oh well! I shall think positively for us all.