Senator Rupp: Enjoy Your Labor Day Holiday

(State Sen. Scott Rupp, R-, has released his weekly column on August 30. The opinions expressed in the column are those of Sen. Rupp and do not reflect the views of the Wentzville Patch. —Ed.)

Many Missourians will enjoy a little extra time off work this Labor Day weekend, and much to our kids’ delight, numerous schools will be closed on Monday in observance of the holiday. Although we all anticipate a much-needed long weekend, few stop to think about the meaning behind Labor Day. It’s a day to relax and enjoy the company of one’s friends and family, but also a time to recognize the hard work ethic of American citizens.

Labor Day was created to signify and commemorate the social and economic achievements of American workers. It’s a holiday to reflect on the success that hard-working men and women have achieved in our country, and to give working Americans a pat on the back. Our nation is known for the diligent work ethic of its citizens and how hard Americans work to provide for their families. In many ways, the country’s foundation was built on the backs and sweat of the working man and woman.

The Labor Day holiday was established more than 110 years ago. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the first governmental recognition of Labor Day came through municipal ordinances passed in 1885 and 1886. The first state bill was introduced in the New York Legislature; however, the first measure to become law passed in Oregon on Feb. 21, 1887. Numerous other states followed suit and adopted Labor Day as a holiday. On June 28, 1894, U.S. Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and our country’s territories, in honor of American workers. Decades have passed since the formation of the holiday, and the American work ethic has remained resolute.

I hope you have the opportunity this holiday weekend to relax and enjoy a hobby or an outing with your family. As your state senator, I appreciate all the hard work you do for our state and our community. Every person in the workforce makes a difference, and you should be proud of your dedicated efforts. Enjoy your weekend and may God bless you always.

Capitol Office:
State Capitol Building, Room 418
Jefferson City , MO 6510
(573) 751-1282