A Celebration of Ohio's Labor Legacy and the Ongoing Fight for Workers' Rights
On the first Monday of September, we come together to celebrate Labor Day, a holiday honoring the profound social and economic contributions of American workers. This day is not just a time for rest; it is a moment to reflect on the legacy of the labor movement and the enduring fight for workers' rights—a struggle that has deep roots right here in Ohio.
Labor Day finds its origins in the late 19th century, a time when American workers, often laboring in harsh conditions for long hours and low pay, began to organize and demand better treatment. Labor activists were instrumental in establishing a federal holiday to recognize the critical role of workers in building and sustaining our nation. As we observe this holiday, we honor labor activists who fought and sacrificed so that future generations can enjoy the protections and rights we have today.
Ohio has played a pivotal role in the history of the labor movement. In 1886 in my very own district in Columbus at Fourth and Town Street, the American Federation of Labor (AFL) was founded. This organization, born from the need for a collective voice to champion workers' rights, quickly became a cornerstone of the labor movement, not just in Ohio but across the entire country. In 1935, the Committee for Industrial Organizations - now the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) - was established to organize workers in factories and mass-production industries.
The American Federation of Labor and the Congress of Industrial Organizations merged in 1955, becoming the largest federation of unions in the U.S. (AFL-CIO). Since that pivotal moment, our labor unions have been unwavering in their commitment to protecting Ohio’s workers. Their efforts have been crucial in securing important victories, such as passing Ohio’s collective bargaining law for public employees, increasing the minimum wage, and advocating for essential worker protections. Today, Ohio's labor movement remains a formidable force, with 12.5% of our workforce proudly unionized—above the national average. This statistic is a testament to the enduring relevance of unions as they continue to advocate for workers' rights in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.
Today, Labor Day is both a celebration and a call to action. The fight for workers' rights continues, with a notable resurgence in union support. A recent Gallup poll shows that 67% of Americans approve of unions, the highest in decades. It's truly remarkable to witness the significant increase in workers organizing, particularly with the noteworthy campaigns at Amazon and Starbucks. This serves as a powerful reminder that the core values of the labor movement remain incredibly pertinent in today's world.
The Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus is committed to continuing this fight. We support fair wages, worker protections, and bills that benefit working families. We will always push for legislation that reflects the needs and aspirations of Ohio’s working class, as we fight against efforts to roll back the hard-won gains of the labor movement. Our work is guided by a simple belief: every worker deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the workers of Ohio and beyond. As we observe Labor Day, let us reflect on its significance and renew our commitment to ensuring that the rights and contributions of workers are always recognized and respected. The fight for workers' rights is a fight for the soul of our nation, and it is one we must continue with vigor and determination.