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This Labor Day, Take Time Out For Workers’ Rights

For most of us, Labor Day marks the end of summer. We get outside, fire up the grill, and get together with friends and family as we relax and enjoy the last of the warm weather. While Labor Day is now a time to relax, it was first celebrated in 1882 when working people marched in New York City to demand an eight-hour workday and other labor law reforms. Since then, union workers have helped win important changes that benefit all workers, including the end to child labor, protections for workers' safety and health, unemployment insurance, and the minimum wage.

But this year, workers’ rights are under attack. The rights to form and join unions are under attack. Overtime is under attack. Workers work longer hours for less pay and fewer benefits. As the Bush administration rolls back protections for workers, employers continue to harass and intimidate workers who are trying to gain a voice at work by forming unions. This Labor Day, take time out to get informed and take action.

Get Informed

When workers have a voice at work, workers and their communities benefit. Compared to nonunion members in similar jobs, union members' wages are higher and they are more likely to get health benefits. How much difference do unions make?

When workers seek to form and join unions, they need protection against employer intimidation. As workers and their allies fight courageously to form unions, employers thwart workers' right to choose a voice on the job. Current laws are weak and not enforced effectively. Get the facts.

Workers’ rights are human rights. A bipartisan bill is making its way through Congress to help make it easier for workers to form unions and protect workers from employer intimidation. Learn more about the Employee Free Choice Act.

Workers deserve a fair living wage. Minimum wage workers have not received a pay raise since 1997. If they work full time at the current wage—$5.15 an hour—their annual income falls below the federal poverty line. How low is low pay?

Take Action

US Capitol Building Send a fax urging your Senator and Representatives to co-sponsor the bipartisan Employee Free Choice Act, setting tougher penalties for employer intimidation of workers trying to form unions.

five dollar bill Tell your Congressional delegation that $5.15 is not enough! Congress hasn't increased the minimum wage in seven years—it's time for a raise!

Workers Rights Watch logo Sign up for American Rights at Work E-Activist Alerts, updates on legislation and activities about workers’ rights.

WINS Listen to the Workers Independent News Service (WINS)—stories by and about working people.

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