The first observance of Labor Day most likely took place on September 5, 1882, when 10,000 workers gathered in New York City for a parade.  That celebration sparked others to hold similar events nationwide, and by 1894, more than half of the states were observing a “workingmen’s holiday.”  Later that year, Congress passed legislation and President Grover Cleveland signed a bill into law stating that the first Monday in September was designated as “Labor Day.”  This national holiday pays tribute to the social and economic achievements of American workers.

Who are American workers?

As of May 2013, there are 155.7 million people over the age of 16 in the country’s labor force. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Statistics)

Retail salespeople by far dominate the workforce, numbering 4,340,000, with cashiers, food preparation and service workers, waiters and waitresses, office clerks, nurses, secretaries/administrative assistants, custodial workers and customer service representatives not far behind in numbers.

Some other interesting labor statistics…

Fastest Growing Jobs: 

Analysts expect that the job category of Personal Care Aide to grow 70% from 2010 to 2020

The occupation expected to add more positions over this period than any other is registered nurses (711,900).

We hope you had a happy Labor Day!

Source: The United States Census Bureau