Blog: Saluting America's Workers on Labor Day

Statement

Since it was first celebrated in New York City in 1882, Labor Day has celebrated the social and economic achievements of America's workers.

Even as this terrible recession slowly eases, many families are still faced with the daily struggle of making ends meet. And even as they do so, they continue to contribute to our great country. In my district in Upper Manhattan, many of those families are recent immigrants or sons and daughters of immigrants from every corner of the globe. They are fulfilling America's promise of opportunity as they work to sustain their families and build our community.

It is abundantly clear that the heart of America is in its workers. It is not in Wall Street or in the centers of finance. What makes America great are those men and women, doing those tough jobs that should pay better but that provide enough to pay the rent, put food on the table, and keep the kids in school and make the family proud.

You take that away from America, and you're taking away our heart. That is why Democrats are working on several fronts to get our economy back on track, to create jobs and stable careers for today's workers and the next generation.

As we celebrate Labor Day weekend, I salute all the hardworking men and women throughout America, and say, despite these difficult times: Don't give up hope. Don't give out. Don't give in. And God bless you and your family.

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