Labor Day, an American holiday with the history left far behind. Under all the end of summer sales, no school and the closing of most public pools, what is Labor Day for? Why have it, when we don’t even know the true meaning of it?

“I think Labor Day signifies the end of summer with a day off and fun celebrations,” comments sophomore, Wyatt Haywood.

It all started in the 19^th century, workers often worked up to 12 hours in a day, 7 days a week. On September 5^th 1882, ten thousand New York workers took a day off and marched from the city hall to Union Square. Dating the first Labor Day parade. The idea of a “workingmen’s holiday” caught on around the industrial powerhouses of the country. It wasn’t until 12 years later when Congress passed it as an official holiday.

“I normally spend the day relaxing with my family at home,” replied Haywood.

Like most Americans, we enjoy the 1^st Monday of September off from school and work. The holiday is also a sign of summer ending. The outdoor pools close, running usually from Memorial Day until Labor Day. White sandals are supposed to go in the back of the closet, not seeing the daylight until Easter Sunday. And we fire up the grill for a family barbeque.

Department stores view the holiday differently than everyone else. End of summer savings with the Labor Day sales provide shoppers with prime savings. We can stock up on cute summer clothes for next year while the great sales last.

This American-born holiday has been celebrated for more than a hundred years. Although the traditions have changed over the years, the reasoning for the day is still strong.