The Labour Day holiday originated in Canada in 1872 after a prolonged fight for the right to formally organise began with the Toronto Typographical Union who were striking to limit the working day to eight hours. This directly lead to the development of the federal Trade Unions Act, legislation that confirmed the legality of unions and formalised the rules for their place.

Ten years later, the Canadian trade union parades that brought attention to the need for good working conditions were noted in the United States and the United Kingdom, leading to those countries’ own formalised labour movements. The U.K. had trade unions as early as 1717, but they were declared illegal and getting them recognised and organised was a struggle that lasted until the late 19th century.

In 1894, Labour Day became a statutory public holiday in Canada marked for the first Monday in September. Since then, it has become somewhat unmoored from its “fair labour practice” roots and tied more closely to other traditions.

In North America, it’s the last long weekend of summer; for many, September 2 is the first day of classes for the new academic year. Between trying to enjoy a last bit of time off and getting students ready to return to school or uni, it can be very busy.

In Canada it’s the start of Canadian League football and traditionally was also the point at which you were no longer supposed to wear white – a practice that is no longer with us, I’m happy to say. Many also see it as a firm but unofficial end to summer fun and relaxation and the start of getting back at the job of serious work. No more summer hours!

Although its connection to labour unions may have seriously weakened over the years, Labour Day itself and the fact that it exists as a holiday represents the determination, focus and struggle of those early organisers who fought to ensure the beginnings of the fair labour practices and standards we enjoy today.

That’s something to remember and honour.