In 1894, when Labor Day was officially declared a federal holiday, the world was very different than it is today. Labor was truly labor 125 years ago — despite increased industrialization and machines, many jobs still required muscle-power, were dangerous and dirty, and there were no protections for the average worker. People left the farms behind for the big cities with the promise of jobs, only to discover that everyone else had the same idea. The labor unions began to gain power in the late 1800s, organizing workers for better pay and safer conditions. They were instrumental in getting the 40 hour week established, ensuring bargaining rights, and demanding safety measures on the factory floor.
The first Labor Day celebrations involved parades organized by unions, picnics, and other public events. Many times there were political speeches and fundraising raffles, and most families could relax and enjoy a day without labor.
On Monday, September 3, while most people are hurrying back from a mini-vacation or enjoying family time in the back yard, they should take a few moments to thank the men and women who organized and fought for the rights of workers those many years ago. In 2016, about 14.6 million workers nationwide belonged to unions, down from the record high of 17.7 million in 1983. Much of the decline in union membership has been attributed to the loss of industrial jobs to automation and overseas labor competition.
As a federal holiday, all federal, state, and local offices will be closed. Trash will be picked up on a sliding schedule (Monday pickup will be on Tuesday, Tuesday on Wednesday, and so on). All Indianapolis Public Library locations will be closed except the InfoZone, located within The Children’s Museum at 3000 N. Meridian St., which will be open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
To celebrate those who work — whether in high tech industries or laying concrete — there will be a free Indy LaborFest from 3-6 p.m. at 250 W. Georgia St. The event is hosted by Central Indiana AFL-CIO and will feature live music, a kid’s zone, food vendors and a beer garden.
The Weekly View office will be closed on Monday, Sept. 3 so we can enjoy time with our family an friends. Deadlines for retail ads will by Aug. 31 and classified on Sept. 4 at noon.