The first official government observance of what we now know as Labor Day, now observed always on the first Monday in September, occurred in Oregon when the state passed legislation to officially recognize the holiday in 1887. New York City’s nongovernmental observance five years earlier was initiated by the Central Labor Union. The actions in both cases spurred interest nationally, which spread rapidly until Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894. 

“Rosie the Riveter” was an iconic image used in U.S. public relations programs to support World War II manufacturing efforts at home. The image featured a female factory worker with her sleeves rolled up declaring, “We can do it!” A popular song and a poster campaign followed. The image has since become associated with laborers, Labor Day, and labor unions.

The holiday’s ties to the military and veteran community are demonstrated by the numerous discounts available to active-duty service members and veterans during the upcoming Labor Day weekend. For a comprehensive list of these discounts provided by veteran.com, click here. On behalf of BVA’s National Headquarters and National Board of Directors, have a pleasant and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!