Community Corner

SOUND OFF: Labor Day, a Day to Remember the Worker, if not the Union

The holiday we celebrate as Labor Day began as a recognition of the American worker, and was begun with campaigns by labor unions.

More than 100 years after the first Labor Day celebration, a day to celebrate the American worker, the unions that represent many American workers are reviled.

Too strong a word? Not really. Many Americans now blame organized labor for rising government budgets, and taxes, for the out-sourcing of jobs to other countries.

Opponents say unions today have grown too powerful, are hampering progress in areas including public education.

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Proponents say labor unions ensure that workers are not taken advantage of by employers, in areas including salary, benefits and workplace safety.

A common slogan among organized labor proponents goes something like this: Thank a union if you enjoy your two-day weekend, and a 40-hour work week.

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As we start out on the long, Labor Day weekend, what are your thoughts on unions? Do they belong to the past, or are they as relevant today as ever?


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