“Nothing ever comes to one that is worth having except as a result of hard work.”

Booker T. Washington

As we move from summer to autumn, Labor Day is a time to reflect on employee wins in our Nation’s history. Annually, we can take this opportunity to recognize the success in establishing sensible child labor laws, relief in harsh working conditions, and a collective advocacy path.

During the Industrial Revolution, oppressive working conditions were the norm.  Peter J. McGuire, a carpenter and labor union leader, had a vision to honor the American worker.  McGuire transformed the workplace, working to ensure fair treatment and recognition for hard-working individuals through a strength in numbers perspective. He was instrumental in forming unions and establishing the holiday.

The ultimate goal is to consistently enhance the daily life of workers by fighting for fair wages, negotiating with employers, and pressuring industries to establish safer work environments.  Although many employment conditions improved, employee rights and safety remain a top priority in American companies.

On behalf of AMAC Foundation, as we take this time to reflect on some of the history of Labor Day, we thank our hard-working Americans and those who support them. Your dedication makes the American Dream possible and keeps it alive for our future generations!

To explore more information about the history and commentary, visit:

Labor Day? Happy American Dream Day!

Britannica – Labor-Day

Library of Congress – The Very First Labor Day

Union Plus – Labor Day History