Teachers, save “JEDI Crew- What is Labor Day? Grades 3-5” to assign it to your class.

The purpose of this assignment is to teach you the true meaning of Labor Day in America. Labor Day is more than a Monday off of school. Labor Day is a way to celebrate and honor the working people in America and the history of their struggles. These times are more than ever a time to honor the American worker by celebrating them on this day. Our country's "essential workers" helped provide our basic needs as we were on stay home order this spring. They continue to do that as we get through this pandemic. First some facts: History of Labor Day: In New York City, on the first Monday in September 1884, the Knights of Labor -- an early labor organization -- held a large parade to celebrate working people. Later that decade, labor organizations around the country began to lobby various state legislatures for recognition of Labor Day as an official holiday. In 1887, the first states to declare it a state holiday were Oregon, Colorado, New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. In 1894, Congress established Labor Day as a national holiday. (from www.educationworld.com) Browse the articles in the canvas. Then, pick an article you would like to read from the link provided in the canvas. After this, you will either write or tell us five facts about what you learned about the history of Labor across the country. Students and parents, if you have any questions about this assignment please email Mrs.Said, Director of Language and Equity Programs at ssaid@emsacharter.org. Thanks! Mrs. Said and Dr. Jeffrey