History of Labor Day

The holiday originated in 1882 as the Central Labor Union of NewYork City sought to create "a day off for the working citizens." Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer

The form for the celebration of Labor Day was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday—a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations," followed by a festival for the workers and their families. This became the pattern for Labor Day celebrations.

Today, Labor Day is often regarded as a day of rest and parades. Speeches or political demonstrations are more low-key than May1 Labor Day Celebration in most countries; although events held by labor organizations often feature political themes and appearances by candidates for office, especially in election years. But others celebrated it by picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events.

This year 2009 in the Philippines, Labor Day celebration was celebrated with different events held to various places, one of which is the “ Jobapalooza 09” held in all SM Mall outlets and other Malls in the country in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment. This is to give chance to unemployed people find different jobs both international and local in just one venue. Especially those workers coming from closed companies because of the on going economic crises that our world is facing right now. I hope it is a great help to all of them. While others are busy applying for jobs, demonstrations on streets are still held to all places because this is the only time that workers can voice out their demands for increase in salary and benefits.