The poetry and beauty of Labor is ever present.

“Genius begins great works,

Labor alone finishes them.”

- Joseph Joubert

The fruit of humankind’s labor is ubiquitous. It is all around us whether it is the road or sidewalk you travel or the rainforest that is protected. The poetry and beauty of Labor is ever present.

Labor Unions serve as a balancing tool in many industries, harnessing the power of a collective to negotiate with the owner/management of the work environment. If you have health or retirement benefits, guaranteed vacation time (paid or unpaid), or any other benefits related to your employment you can thank organized Labor Unions regardless of your company's Union status.

It is generally accepted that the first labor strike in the United States occurred in 1768 in New York City when journeymen tailors had a work stoppage to protest a reduction in pay. The strike lasted for three days during which the employer granted the employees demands. The employer then sued the employees for “criminal conspiracy”. In 1794 the first trade union was formed giving birth to “The Federal Society of Journeymen Cordwainers” a union for shoemakers and leather workers. The Union was sued by the factory owners in 1806 for – wait for it –  “criminal conspiracy”. I see a pattern emerging. 

The Labor Union movement has come far in its journey to foster a safe and equitable labor environment. To all who keep the energy of commerce moving for the benefit of humankind…

Thank you. Happy Labor Day.

Peace.