The American worker being celebrated across the nation on this Labor Day, but how many understand why we celebrate their hard work. Hundreds lining North Main Street in Lima today as the annual Labor Day Parade makes its way to town square.
The first Labor Day Parade was held 134 years ago by the Central Labor Union in New York City to honor American workers. Observances varied in dates as states marked their own celebrations. It wasn't until June of 1884 that Labor Day became a national holiday observed on the first Monday in September under the 53rd United States Congress and President Grover Cleveland.
Today's Labor Day parade grand marshal was David Smith of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 32. Smith asks everyone to take a moment and remember the workers before us that helped build this country. The parade is sponsored by the West Central Ohio Labor Council, AFL-CIO. The theme this year was "Organized labor giving workers a voice, giving families a better life."
