Labor Day in the United States is more than just a day off or the unofficial end of summer. Its roots are deeply tied to the history of workers’ struggles, and today it still reminds us of the importance of protecting labor rights.

Here are answers to the most common questions about Labor Day and how it connects to the reality of workers in New York.

Why is Labor Day celebrated in the United States?

Labor Day began in the late 19th century, during a time of strikes and labor movements demanding better working conditions. Back then, workers often endured 12 to 16-hour shifts, six days a week, with low pay and no job security.

The pressure from organized workers led Congress to officially recognize Labor Day in 1894 as a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the contributions of the working class to the country’s growth.

Unlike many other nations that celebrate International Workers’ Day on May 1, the United States chose the first Monday of September to mark this holiday, giving workers a much-needed break before the end of summer.

How does Labor Day connect to workers’ rights today?

Even though we now benefit from standards like the 8-hour workday, minimum wage, and protections against discrimination, the spirit of Labor Day is still very much alive.

Workers in New York continue to face challenges such as:

• Unpaid overtime in restaurants, construction, and other industries.
• Withheld or miscalculated wages that harm thousands of employees.
• Workplace discrimination based on origin, gender, age, or disability.
• Unsafe working environments that put employees’ health at risk.

Every time a worker stands up for their right to fair pay or safe conditions, they are continuing the legacy that gave birth to Labor Day. This holiday is a reminder that rights were not handed over freely; they were won through decades of struggle and must still be defended today.

What does Labor Day mean for workers in New York?

For workers across New York — especially in industries like construction, restaurants, laundromats, supermarkets, and warehouses — Labor Day is a reminder that:

1. Your time and effort matter. If you work more than 40 hours a week, the law requires overtime pay.
2. No one is above the law. Employers cannot withhold wages, pay below the minimum, or discriminate against you.
3. The fight continues. Despite progress, thousands of workers every year still face labor abuses and need to stand up for their rights.

In this way, Labor Day is not just another holiday: it is a symbol of dignity, resilience, and justice. It highlights the reality that the working class sustains New York’s economy, and that labor rights must remain a priority.

Labor Day is not only about barbecues or end-of-summer sales. It is a reminder that the rights we have today were earned through sacrifice and collective action. And it is also a call to protect those rights in the present.

At Helen F. Dalton & Associates, with more than 30 years of experience in New York, we honor that spirit every day by defending workers who have been treated unfairly. If you ever feel your rights have been violated, remember you are not alone.