LABOR DAY: HONORING WORK AND TRADITION
By Senator Phillip Wheeler
Each year, the first Monday in September brings us together to celebrate Labor Day. For many, it marks the end of summer. At its core, it is a holiday steeped in history and tradition. It is a day that reminds us of the dignity of work and the people whose labor built our nation.
The story of Labor Day begins in the late 19th century, when working men and women faced long hours, dangerous conditions, and little recognition. In 1882, New York City held the first Labor Day parade, organized by labor unions who sought to honor the contributions of everyday workers. Over the next decade, more states followed suit. By 1894, after a season of labor unrest across the country, Congress officially established Labor Day as a federal holiday. It was a recognition that the strength of America lay not just in its leaders, but in the determination and perseverance of its people.
For more than a century since, Americans have marked the day with parades, gatherings, and family traditions. Beyond the celebrations, Labor Day carries a reminder: work is not merely about earning a wage. It is about service, pride, and leaving something lasting for the next generation.
Here in eastern Kentucky, that legacy runs especially deep. Our region was built on the shoulders of coal miners, farmers, craftsmen, and teachers who worked tirelessly to provide for their families and strengthen their communities. Their grit and sacrifice are woven into the history of our commonwealth. When we speak of Labor Day, we speak of them.
As a student of history, I find it important to remember how this holiday has endured across generations. The nature of work may change, industries rise, technologies shift, but the principle remains the same: honest labor is noble and it deserves respect. Our responsibility as policymakers is to make sure that Kentuckians continue to have opportunities to work with dignity, to adapt to change, and to thrive in the modern economy.
This weekend, as we enjoy time with family and friends, let us not forget the history behind Labor Day. It is more than a holiday on the calendar. It is a tradition that honors the past, grounds us in the present, and challenges us to ensure a brighter future for those who will carry on the work.
I wish you and your families a safe and meaningful holiday.
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Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, represents Kentucky’s 31st Senate District, including Elliott, Johnson, Lawrence, Martin, and Pike Counties. He serves as co-chair of the Interim Joint Committees on Economic Development and Workforce Investment and on Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology. Wheeler is also a member of the Make America Health Again Kentucky Task Force. He also serves on the Interim Joint Committees on Judiciary; Natural Resources and Energy; and Transportation. He is a member of the Legislative Oversight and Investigations Committee and is a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Protection.
