Origins and Legislative History of Labor Day

Labor Day is observed on the first Monday of September as an annual celebration of the achievements of American workers. Its origins trace back to the late 19th century when labor activists advocated for a federal holiday to honor the contributions of laborers to the nation’s strength and prosperity. Initially recognized by individual states, Oregon became the first to pass a law in 1887, followed by several others, leading to 23 states adopting the holiday by 1894. Finally, on June 28, 1894, Congress enacted Labor Day as a national holiday, establishing a formal recognition of the importance of workers in American society.