Wisconsin AFL-CIO President Bloomingdale’s special Labor Day message was published over the weekend in the Wisconsin State Journal. Click here to read and share.
Click here for a list of Labor Day events in Wisconsin.
Happy Labor Day!
Labor Day is so much more than just the annual bookend to summer, a day off for some or an occasion to get together with family and friends. First and foremost, Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers– and there are many.
As the labor movement finds itself at a historic juncture in our changing economy, let us take this opportunity to acknowledge the contributions that labor unions have made to our society. Taking all things into account, one thing is clear: Life is better in a union.
Workers in labor unions make 18% more in wages than our nonunion counterparts. We are more likely to have health care benefits. We work in safer workplaces. Being in a union means building a better future for ourselves and our families, generations down the line. It means access to a good, sustainable job in the industries of the future. It means earning wages that help us keep up with rising rents or afford a home, and it means knowing that our retirement is secure. Our future—and the future of our families—is better in a union.
All over the country, workers are realizing that unions are the single best tool we have to address today’s historic economic inequity. This Labor Day, unions are buoyed by strong public support.
Poll after poll shows historically high support for labor unions and strikes. This week’s Gallup poll shows two-thirds of Americans approve of labor unions and that a record high number of people would like unions to have more influence in our country. The AFL-CIO also recently released data that shows young people in particular are enthusiastic about the labor movement and supportive of strikes.
As you take time out this long weekend to celebrate with friends, family and coworkers, take a moment to reflect on all those who fought to secure workplace rights before us as we harness the historic energy towards a better future with stronger unions for all.
Solidarity and Happy Labor Day,
Stephanie Bloomingdale, President
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