WARWICK, RI — Monday, Sept. 4, marks the unofficial end of summer with Labor Day, granting most workers with a three-day weekend, a tradition begun in 1882, a reminder of living wages, reasonable hours and safe working conditions, benefits organized labor has won for workers.
Monday weather: Hot & Humid
The Weather forecast promises solid beach weather in the mid-80s. However, summer humidity also returns Monday and the combination is expected to stick around through Wednesday, if not Thursday. Forecast heat indicies are generally 90-94 degrees, so prepare accordingly.
What’s open, what’s closed Monday
In Warwick, city hall and the school department are closed for the holiday. Trash, recycling, and yard waste pick-ups are delayed one day.
TF Green State Airport is operating, with arrival and departure schedules online.
Banks are also closed or holding limited hours.
The holiday, first celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in New York City by the Central Labor Union, according to the US Department of Labor. The celebration was originally a street parade to exhibit to the public “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families.
The idea took off across the states, and on June 28, 1884, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday. In the following years, the holiday has honored the hard work of America’s workforce and their role in driving the U.S. economy. The day has also served as a reminder of the benefits organized labor has won for workers, including better wages, reasonable hours and safe working conditions. The labor movement led efforts to stop child labor, give health benefits and provide aid to workers who were injured or retired.
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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