10 facts about Labor Day
Labor Day is a cherished occasion that goes beyond the well-deserved break from work; it serves as a poignant reminder of the dedicated individuals who contribute to the betterment of our lives.
As we approach this weekend, we’d like to thank the heroes who play an indispensable role in making The Behavior Exchange what it is today. Our hearts swell with appreciation for the amazing therapist staff and all those who work relentlessly behind the curtains to make sure our families receive the caring and expert service we are known for.
With unwavering commitment, our RBTs, and BCBAs all provide the guidance and empathy essential for those seeking our expert ABA therapy services. Their expertise and compassion create a safe space where our families and their children can reach their full potential. As we reflect on the importance of Labor Day, it’s essential we recognize the sacrifices and dedication of our dedicated staff who tirelessly work to uplift lives and pave the way for a more understanding and empathetic world.
As we celebrate Labor Day, we’d like to also extend our gratitude to our entire group of amazing people that foster an environment where personal growth and positive meaningful change can flourish. Together, we acknowledge that the progress achieved wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative spirit that defines The Behavior Exchange and all other ABA therapy services like ours.
Labor Day makes us pause and recognize the invaluable contributions of our therapist staff and all those working diligently to shape The Behavior Exchange’s impactful journey. This day serves as a testament to their dedication, resilience, and the positive impact they have on countless lives. Their commitment reminds us that true progress is a group, collaborative effort. We’d like to reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment of growth, empathy, and chang
10 Labor Day facts you should know.
- The idea first became public in 1882. In September 1882, the unions of New York City decided to have a parade to celebrate their members being in unions, and to show support for all unions. At least 20,000 people were there, and the workers had to give up a day’s pay to attend. There was also a lot of beer involved in the event.
- The New York parade inspired other unions. Other regions started having parades, and by 1887, Oregon, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Colorado made Labor Day a state holiday.
- How did the Haymarket Affair influence Labor Day? On May 4, 1886, a bomb exploded at a union rally in Chicago’s Haymarket Square, which led to violence that killed seven police officers and four others. The incident also led to May 1 being celebrated in most nations as Workers Day. The U.S. government chose Labor Day instead to avoid a celebration on May 1 and New York’s unions had already picked the first Monday in September for their holiday.
- Two people with similar names are credited with that first New York City event. Matthew Maguire, a machinist, and Peter McGuire, a carpenter, have been linked to the 1882 parade. The men were from rival unions; in 2011, Linda Stinson, a former U.S. Department of Labor’s historian, said she didn’t know which man should be credited – partially because people over the years confused them because of their similar-sounding names.
- Grover Cleveland helped make Labor Day a national holiday. After violence related to the Pullman railroad strike, President Cleveland and lawmakers in Washington wanted a federal holiday to celebrate labor – and not a holiday celebrated on May 1. Cleveland signed an act in 1894 establishing the federal holiday; most states had already passed laws establishing a Labor Day holiday by that point. Sen. James Henderson Kyle of South Dakota introduced S. 730 to make Labor Day a federal legal holiday on the first Monday of September. It was approved on June 28, 1894.
- The holiday has evolved over the years. In the late 19th century, celebrations focused on parades in urban areas. Now the holiday is a celebration that honors organized labor with fewer parades, and more activities. It also marks the perceived end of the summer season.
- Can you wear white after Labor Day? This old tradition goes back to the late Victorian era, where it was a fashion faux pas to wear any white clothing after the summer officially ended on Labor Day. The tradition isn’t really followed anymore. EmilyPost.com explains the logic behind the fashion trend – white indicated you were still in vacation mode at your summer cottage.
- Labor Day is the unofficial end of Hot Dog season. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council says that between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Americans will eat 7 billion hot dogs.
- How many people are union members today? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 14.8 million union members in the workforce in 2017. There were 17.7 million in 1983.
- What is the biggest union today? The National Education Association has about 3 million people who are members, including inactive and lifetime members.
Labor Day reminds us how collective efforts can create lasting change. At The Behavior Exchange, we believe families deserve that same support on their journey with autism.
Thinking about how ABA therapy could support your child’s growth?
Follow The Behavior Exchange on social media for helpful tips and resources, or reach out at [email protected]