THANKS TO THE AMERICAN LABOR MOVEMENT

As we celebrate another Labor Day weekend, 3 days in fact for many of us, I think it is important to give credit to those that made this traditional weekend away from our jobs possible: The American Labor Movement.

Many great benefits have came our way over the years due to the diligent work of union memberships throughout our great country. Such items as weekends off, overtime pay, 8-hour workday, minimum wage laws, paid vacation, paid sick days, improved safety standards, child labor laws, health benefits, retirement security and unemployment compensation are all a direct result of labor unions and their membership standing up for the American worker.

My father was a member of the railroad unions for close to forty years. I was a member of the AFSCME union while working with the state of Ohio. Throughout all those years I met many dedicated workers who cared for their families, their churches and their communities. They worked hard, obeyed our laws and sent their children to our schools. I can't imagine living any other way than by the solid work ethic and principles I gained growing up and the environment I am proud to have come from.

This Labor Day weekend, as well as throughout the year, stop and think before you sponsor those who out-sourced jobs to other countries, and those who try to eliminate collective bargaining rights and deprive citizens of their right to health insurance and abolish social security, retirement pensions and Medicare.

My thanks to all those of the American Labor Movement for all they have done for my family and yours.

Mike Payton
9-3-2012