Labor Day- A time to celebrate, reflect

When most Americans fire up their barbecue grills on Labor Day, many of them will be grateful for a day off from work. But some -- especially union members -- will also take note of the day's special recognition for the accomplishments of the labor movement.

Labor Day has been a federal holiday since Congress designated it in 1894. Early celebrations consisted mainly of parades to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations," as outlined in the proposal for the very first such local observance.

In recent years, Labor Day has continued to honor workers throughout the nation. And the holiday has become the unofficial marker for the end of summer, just as Memorial Day is the unofficial start of the warm season full of outdoor activities.

It goes without saying that diligent, enterprising, innovative workers have been a hallmark of American achievement. On this Labor Day, we salute all workers and honor those who fought so hard for the rights that those with jobs continue to enjoy and benefit from today.