CHEERS TO LABOR DAY! CHEERS TO DEMOCRACY!

The first Monday of September brings Labor Day, the unofficial sendoff to summer. For most Americans, that means a long weekend, a lighter week at school or the office, and maybe one more cookout before fall routines take over.

Labor Day is a celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. It honors workers by recognizing their contribution to society. President Grover Cleveland signed a law making it a national holiday on June 28, 1894, though its history dates back years earlier. The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated more than a decade earlier, when an estimated 10,000 workers marched on Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union.

In other parts of the world, Labor Day is celebrated on May 1. Growing up in Russia, we also had the day off—a holiday us kids looked forward to and loved. Still, even as a child, I understood that I wasn’t living in a democracy. Because of my family’s religion, I knew I would never be accepted into the university of my choice or have the chance to pursue the kind of job I truly wanted. The government didn’t honor workers or genuinely care for people. Often, jobs weren’t chosen by individuals; they were simply assigned, leaving many to settle for whatever position they were given. The unspoken reasons were clear—whether it was the wrong religion, a lack of connections, or simply not knowing the right people in power. Instead of striving to rise to the top, people were expected to accept what they had and be grateful for it.

I just celebrated the 40^th anniversary of immigrating to the United States. During my 40 years here, some of them were spent working Labor Day, while other years I had the day off. It never bothered me then and never will, because it was my choice. This country cares about people, their views, their well-being, and gives you a chance to be who you want to be and do what you want to do. Not everyone dreams of climbing the corporate ladder—and that’s perfectly fine. But if you do, the opportunity is there, and nothing can hold you back. Whether you dream of being a doctor, a nurse, a scientist, a teacher, or a chef, nothing will stand in your way—and no one will quietly deny you the chance. The reason: Democracy!  

I truly appreciate every profession and the people who dedicate themselves to their work. But on days when I’m fortunate enough to have time off, I’m especially grateful for those who continue working so families like mine can enjoy that break—a sales clerk at the store if I want to shop, a chef and waitstaff at a restaurant if I don’t feel like cooking, a lifeguard at the pool if I want to swim, a police officer who keeps us safe, or a doctor and medical team ready in case of an emergency. Labor Day equals democracy. Democracy equals freedom.

Freedom equals celebration.

La Dolce Vita!  Until next month!