GRAPHIC BY PIXIE IWATA
STORY BY LAURYN COX
STAFF WRITER
Cypress College will be closed on Monday, Sept. 5 in observance of Labor Day. Labor Day is a holiday celebrated to honor the contribution and achievements of American workers.
In the late 1800’s the industrial revolution was taking place in America. The workdays consisted of 12- hours and seven-day weeks. People of all ages were working in unjust conditions to make a basic living.
On June 26, the American Railroad Union, led by Eugene V. Debs started a boycott for Pullman railroad cars. To stop Pullman’s strike, the federal government sent out troops to Chicago where riots started resulting in dozens of worker deaths.
On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed an act that would pass a law making Labor Day a legal holiday.
Although not a lot of Americans are aware of the history of Labor Day and why we have a day off, there are a lot of people who spend time with their loved ones. From homework to barbeques, people continue to celebrate Labor day to this day, even those who would consider or think it’s a random day off.
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration major Mathew Andrade said that he has no plans for the upcoming holiday, and plans to chill at home.
The holiday is a day where friends and family members come together and can enjoy taking the day off.
“I would go to the park, chill out, and have a carne asada cook out with my family. I will also be taking my day off to finish any assignments I will have,” said Jonathan Lanagarica, Cypress Security major.
Many Americans like to relax on this holiday and sometimes forget why we get the day off. Knowing the history behind the holiday’s Americans have the honor of celebrating allows the traditions to be continued for generations to come.
