Labor Day has been celebrated in the United States for over 125 years. Since its inception in the late 19th century, it has become a holiday honoring the hardworking people of the country. This year, the importance behind Labor Day and its organizing roots are especially strong.
The American labor movement has grown over many decades. Throughout its history, there have been many strikes, campaigns, and protests as a way to improve working conditions for workers. From the famous Pullman railroad strike of 1894 to the continued protests at fast-food restaurants advocating for higher wages, the American labor movement has long been a means for protecting workers’ rights. In recent years, union contracts and collective bargaining have been heavily discussed, leading to a better understanding of the importance of organized labor in our country today.
This year, the labor organizing echoes louder. Several well-known union negotiations came to a close, such as the union contract between the United Auto Workers and General Motors. The UAW and GM have been working for over a year to find an agreement on wages and benefits. After months of intense negotiations, a historic agreement was reached, proving that united workers can declare wins for their entire community.
Other unions have been hard at work too. In August of this year, New York City’s building trades unions and tow truck drivers union won a minimum wage increase, adding more fuel to the fire for the labor movement.
Not all unions have had victories this year, however. In San Francisco, Uber and Lyft drivers have been taking to the streets in an effort to win union protection. The drivers are seeking greater job security, health benefits, and a say in how the company is run. Despite the drivers’ protests, both Uber and Lyft are so far refusing to recognize the drivers as having collective bargaining rights, continuing the struggle for workers to get the respect they deserve.
Labor Day is a day to honor and remember the hardworking people who have fought for greater rights in the workplace. This year more than ever, unions are continuing to fight for these rights. As Labor Day passes, let us remember the long history of the labor movement and strive to create a better, more just workplace for everyone.