Labour Day weekend traditionally marks the end of summer holidays and the beginning of the school year, although because of COVID-19 this year feels quite different.
It should be recalled that Labour Day was set aside to honour workers and the work of the union movement that rallied for advances for workers and their families such as the weekend and an 8-hour workday. This is also a good time to reflect on the value of essential workers during the COVID pandemic and be grateful that labour laws are in place to protect them from working too many hours and in unsafe conditions.
We have come a long way from the first Labour Day celebrated in Canada in the 1880s and the first victory that celebrated a 54-hour work week. It is important to continue to remember that labour laws are hard won rights to protect workers and we should not take them from granted.
I do hope everyone enjoys their weekend with family and friends keeping COVID-19 precautions in place including physically distancing and frequent handwashing.
Be kind, stay safe, stay well,
