Labor Day and Rosh Hashanah

Although the school year has just started, many students will be excited to hear that they will already be enjoying a couple of days off. There will be no school on Monday, September 6th or Tuesday, September 7th due to Labor Day and Rosh Hashanah.

Labor Day is a holiday celebrated on the first Monday of September, which falls on September 6th this year. It honors workers and their contributions to the nation. It is a time for employees to rest and reflect on their achievements as hard workers.

The holiday memorializes and honors the workers of the United States. The day was made into a national holiday in 1894 in response to multiple strikes by labor unions fighting for better work conditions. These improved work conditions would include increased safety, shorter work hours, and more time off for workers’ personal lives.

The 1890s were characterized by significant technological developments, as a result of the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution allowed for the mechanization and automation of labor that caused mass production of goods. The revolution created millions of job opportunities, specifically in factories.

Although this was amazing for the economy, the work conditions of these factories were treacherous. They led to the formation of labor unions, which helped laborers fight for their rights. They created numerous strikes, where workers made their voices heard, and Labor Day: a day to celebrate their accomplishments and rest from work.

Today, America still honors this holiday. There are many celebrations, including famous Labor Day parades that take place across the nation. One celebration of the holiday will take place at the Palm Beach Kennel Club in West Palm Beach.

Rosh Hashanah, meaning “the head of the year”, is a Jewish holiday celebrating the Jewish new year, which falls on September 7th. The new year is often celebrated by a festival beginning on the evening of the final day of the Jewish calendar (September 6th) and lasting until the second day of the new year (September 8th).

Many families gather on this holiday to ring in the new year. They eat special meals, pray, and spend time together. Due to the new year, there is no school on Tuesday, September 7th.

Written by Reema Shather  | Graphic Designed by Nancy Castaneda

Published September 3, 2021 | ePathfinder | Feature