Labor Day falls on the first Monday in September. It’s the day to honor and remember working people who’ve fought for workers’ rights in the workplace. It’s also the day to celebrate the labor movement’s major accomplishments on behalf of all Americans: Eight-hour workday. Weekends without work. Lunch breaks. Minimum wage. Sick leave. Paid vacation. Child labor laws. Workers’ compensation. Workplace safety and regulations. Employer-paid health insurance. Pensions. Overtime pay. The list goes on.
These successes did not happen overnight. Union members fought every day to win these common-sense changes to make our economy work for everyone and not just a select few.
Here at AFGE, the largest union representing federal employees, what our union and members do has a far-reaching effect across the country. When due process in the federal government is threatened, for example, it sends a chilling effect to all workers across the country. Indeed, President Reagan’s unprecedented firing of more than 11,000 air traffic controllers encouraged private employers to do the same to striking workers.
When AFGE members speak out about staffing shortages at the Social Security Administration, Transportation Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and others, it helps to spotlight a major issue that prevents the American people from getting the services they deserve. When government employees have the resources and support they need to do their jobs, everyone wins, which is why AFGE remains committed to advocating for fully staffed and funded government agencies.
As we celebrate Labor Day, here are some of the victories AFGE members have won so far this year to make the government a better place to work and government services better for the American people:
Ready to be a part of the movement that fights for better pay, benefits, and working conditions? Join AFGE today!
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