After years of standing firm and organizing, the common men and women of America demanded change. Child labor laws were created. Wages became livable.
By Patrick Jude
Overshadowed by the holiday season, which immediately follows, Labor Day is the one exclusive to America holiday that seemingly even we don’t care about. We should though. At the dawn of 20th century America if you weren’t rich you were pretty poor.
Workers, including children, labored for up to sixteen hours each day with pittance in return. The well being of employed Americans was at an all time low, and only worsened with the approaching depression.
Labor Day commemorates the calloused hands of those workers coming together to fight against the haves of America; and against the slicked back hair of the businessmen, far detached from their most important assets.
After years of standing firm and organizing, the common men and women of America demanded change. Child labor laws were created. Wages became livable. The concepts of a 40-hour workweek and paid vacations were also alien prior to the labor movements. So, while you’re celebrating, remember that Labor Day is much more than just a three-day weekend.
With that being in mind, here are a few suggestions for how to go about everybody’s favorite pre-holiday season holiday!
Stephen King Art Show
With the recent release of The Dark Tower, a spike in book sales, and the anticipated remake of It, ask anybody around and they’ll tell ya – The King is back! In a fitting tribute to all of King’s works, Longwood’s best spot will become a massive showcase of various artists’ representations. Classics like The Shining, Misery, and Children Of The Corn will all adorn the top-notch music venue in a stunning display for the rest of September!
Hourglass Brewery
09/02 at 4:00 P.M.
Free
The Lovely Story Time
Here’s one for the kids. Located right on the main strip of Corrine Drive, The Lovely Boutique will provide the perfect start to the holiday for you and your young ones. In a round robin style, readers will take turns sharing their favorite stories to what will surely be an entertained audience.
The Lovely Boutique
09/03 at 9:30 A.M.
Free
Live Music – Lavola
Lavola is one of the longest lasting groups in Florida; they’ve been puttin in work for years! They’ll be closing out a Labor Day show along with local favorites Bothering Dennis and John David Williams. Arrows In Action will be making their way down from Gainesville; grab an early drink!
Wills Pub
09/03 at 8 P.M.
$8
Born and raised in Orlando, and Socialist to the core, Patrick Jude graduated from The University Of Central Florida in 2015. He currently holds a B.A. in English Literature, as well as an A.A. in Jazz Performance from Valencia College. Jude is heavily tattooed, abstains from alcohol and is an avid Packers fan.
Currently Reading: Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga – by Hunter S. Thompson
