Steven J. Ross

Second, they wanted to communicate the importance and power of organized labor, despite whatever internal conflicts or disagreements the various groups comprising the movement might have.

The day, as historians Michael Kazin and Stephen J. Ross assert, quote, "...challenged the authority of capitalists and politicians over the social consequences of industrialization," end quote.

There were two components to the first Labor Day celebrations in 1882, a parade of workers followed by a picnic.

The parade was geared for outsiders, a pseudo-publicity campaign to demonstrate how vital workers were to the nation's economy.

And despite the holiday's intention to honor and celebrate the power of organized labor and unions, many early Labor Day celebrations were not paid.

While legislators were happy to pass an ordinance recognizing Labor Day, they were hard-pressed to ensure the workers received a paid day off as a reward for their hard work.

As historians Michael Kazin and Stephen J. Ross explain, "...few businessmen voluntarily gave their employees a day off, and government officials were reluctant to enforce a measure whose political utility had essentially ended with its passage." Thus, anyone who wished to participate in Labor Day marches or picnics were forced to engage in a one-day strike, which meant losing out on a day's pay and risk losing their job.

The celebrations of Labor Day also quickly evolved.