Labor Day, Sept. 4, honors workers, marking both labor victories and ongoing challenges.

Labor Day, celebrated on September 4th this year, is a federal holiday honoring American workers. Originating in 1882 with a New York City parade, it became a national holiday in 1894. Initially, it marked workers' struggles for better conditions, but today, it is also a time for relaxation, travel, and shopping. Despite its origins, not all states allow public workers to collectively bargain, reflecting ongoing labor challenges.