In 1981, during his first Labor Day, the 40th President Ronald Reagan said, “We built this great Nation, built it to surpass the highest standards ever imagined, through the hard work of our people. I would match the American worker against any in the world. The people whose labor fuels our industry and economy are among the most productive anywhere.”
As we celebrate Labor Day, a week from next Monday it will mark the unofficial end of summer 2025 – although we know that here in the south there will be plenty more hot and humid days ahead. Growing up here in Carroll County I have so many memories of this time of year being the last trips swimming and going to the lake. Schools are now in full swing for the 2025-2026 school year and football games are underway. On Monday, September 1, 2025, schools, government offices, and a host of businesses and others will observe Labor Day. The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed in 1885 and 1886. From these, a movement developed to secure state legislation. Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearlong national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the well-being of our country.
Labor is the cornerstone of our economy. When there are difficult times and hardships, it’s challenging. In every election, not just state and local election years like on the horizon in 2027, but all weather presidential, and municipal; jobs and economic development are always at the top of the list. They are essential issues; they are vital issues. This disruption of employment and business plays into our livelihood and everything around us to our elections. As we celebrated Labor Day 2025, I want to celebrate this year by expressing gratitude to our workers, in one form or another every business, and employees that make them up deserve appreciation.
We are strong, resilient people that don’t give up. There is so much gratitude not only on Labor Day but all year long for the dedication that has been displayed. To the business owners and their employees, it is appreciated your efforts to keep our local economy going strong.
Ken Strachan serves as the mayor of North Carrollton, is a member of the Mississippi Municipal League board of directors, and serves as the North Central Mayor’s Association president
