MANAGEMENT AND LABOR COOPERATE BY NECESSITY

Here is a sentiment expressed on a banner at the first Labor Day celebration in 1882: Labor built this country ... and labor shall rule it! It was a conviction borne of the labor climate at the time, one encumbered by rancor. With angry socialists of the time locking horns with wealthy industrialists, it is little wonder tensions created of this dispute would last years, and that the labor movement would carry lingering scars. As Labor Day arrives this year, we hope for a more enlightened view. The relationship of labor and management is changing. The holiday is now a fitting observance of the accomplishments of all American working men and women.

An article in today's Southeast Missourian points to the changes both in role and image that are taking place in local labor organizations. Groups such as the Cape Girardeau Central Trades and Labor Council are working not only in the traditional manner for unions but also in establishing educational programs for their members. A group called the Southeast Missouri Area Labor Management Co-Op Committee functions to bring together labor and management representatives to discuss various concerns before they become problems. Johnny Ray Conklin, executive secretary-treasurer of the SEMO District Council of Carpenters, is known as much for his community involvement as he is for his union leadership. In trying to improve the image of labor, he also is striving to define what unions have to offer members and management.

In a Labor Day essay, Paul Silas, Phillips Petroleum executive and chairman of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, makes a relevant observation: "Labor Day originated as a celebration of the differences separating working people from the managers and owners of business. ... More and more, owners, managers and workers are striving together in common cause." His point is right on the mark.

There are still many pro~blems to resolve in labor-management relations. The point is that efforts are being made to resolve them. It is an important endeavor, needed not only for the survival of workers but for the well-being of the American economy. Without all parties moving toward the same goal, that of making this nation foremost in global commerce, the job is that much harder.

America has a labor force of unfailing dedication, resourcefulness, ambition and pride. If the United States economy has staggered somewhat in its ability to compete in the world market, it is not because Americans are innately incapable of putting forth the effort. The challenge for Americans to remain competitive worldwide is one of finding even greater cooperation between labor and management. It is in that spirit we should celebrate Labor Day 1991, and take the struggle on from there.