Why we celebrate Labor Day and its meaning
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The extended weekend gives most Americans a much-needed chance to catch up with friends and family and offers a final celebration before the beginning of fall.
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The holiday on Monday, however, has a deeper significance that dates back to the struggle for just working conditions in the 19th century.
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Initially, the purpose of Labor Day was to celebrate the contributions of workers to the American organised labour movement.
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According to the US Department of Labor, Labor Day was first observed informally by labour activists and particular states in the late 1800s.
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Although Oregon was the first state to codify Labor Day into law in 1887, New York was the first state to introduce a measure recognising the holiday.
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By the end of 1887, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York had adopted a similar strategy.
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According to labour historian Joshua Freeman, emeritus professor at the City University of New York,
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