Something to think about
September 7, 2009 (Monday)
Today is Labor Day. Americans have two holidays that serve like bookends for summer, which begins on Memorial Day and ends with Labor Day. Of course, both days have much more meaningful significance than being seasonal markers.
Memorial Day is meant to be a solemn observance, remembering those who have given their lives in the service of their country. Labor Day was established to honor those who make up the labor force of this nation.
Labor Day has been officially observed in the United States since 1894. It was established in the aftermath of tragedy following the deadly suppression of a railroad strike. Grover Cleveland led in the establishment of the special recognition of Labor as a vital part of the American economy. “The working man” became a symbol of which many are proud. Of course, today the work force includes “the working woman” as well.
When I worked at General Motors in the mid-1950’s, my job each day was to compile a “manpower report” for our department in the assembly plant. The question our bosses wanted answered before the power was switched on, was, “How many employees were available to do the jobs?” Fortunately, every day I worked there, there were enough people at work to do the jobs.
There has been a struggle between management and labor ever since the beginnings of the industrial revolution. In my opinion, an important human factor in the repulsion of communism as an economic system in our nation was the existence of the trade unions. Through negotiation and limited legislation, the United States has led the way in the preservation of freedom and the maintenance of dignity for employees, while opening the door for ordinary people to become investors. While far from perfect, it is a great system. We Americans should give thought to such matters on Labor Day.