MADISON - Rep. Christine Sinicki (D-Milwaukee) pays tribute to the achievements and contributions of the American worker.

Audio File of Radio Address

Hi, I’m State Representative Christine Sinicki.

Labor Day is the day when we pay tribute to the achievements and contributions of the American workforce. It was created by the American workforce and named a federal holiday in 1894 by President Cleveland.

As we celebrate the unofficial end of summer with friends and family over a brat or burger, let’s take a moment to reflect on Wisconsin stories of labor history and give thanks to those who fought and sometimes died to give us the benefits we all now enjoy as workers.

Wisconsin was at the forefront of early union organizing. In fact it was in Bay view where I grew up where, in 1886, where seven immigrant workers were shot and killed on orders by Governor Rusk. They were shot while walking peacefully in the campaign for the eight hour work day.

It was Wisconsin that brought us the first Workers Compensation law and the first Unemployment Insurance laws.

As Democrats we believe that strong workers equal a strong America. We will always believe in the right for all workers to organize unions in their workplace.

As you celebrate, remember, who brought you this three-day weekend – and every weekend: organized labor and a strong, talented workforce.