Dear Editor,
Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday in September.
This is the day we give special emphasis to the rights, responsibilities and the achievements of the American working men and women who produce the material wealth of our nation’s free enterprise system.
In 1882 it was proposed to the Central Labor Union by Peter McGuire, president of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, that there be a special day for parades to dramatize the strength and spirit of trade and labor organizations. McGuire said that there were none dedicated to the industrial spirit of our nation.
The first parade by labor unions was held in New York City, Sept. 5, 1882.
By 1884, Labor Day was recognized in 30 states. Then Congress proclaimed Labor Day a national holiday.
Today we pay tribute to the dignity, growth and important contributions of American Labor.
Our workers have served the nation invaluably, both in time or peace and war.
They strengthen our progress and our security. This is the special day upon which labor gives particular attention to the many physical, cultural and economic potentials that can be developed through harmonious relationships uniting all management and workers.
Each of us has a stake in our heritage of freedom.
Whether we speak for labor or for management, each of us is obligated to fulfill the individual’s citizenship responsibilities.
Identified prominently in the labor forces are the war veterans — the men who fought for all that we call our American way of life.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has always been a staunch supporter of organized labor within the VFW groups, as well as the spokesmen for management.
Labor leaders emphasize the “fruits of freedom” in our land and they reflect the spirit and importance of Labor Day.
So, on this special day, we join them in paying the highest tribute to the patriotism and resourcefulness of American workers.
Thelma Hipp,
Americanism chairman,
Morrison-McFadden,
VFW Post 3111
and auxiliary,
Great Bend