“Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if Labor had not first existed. Labor is superior to capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.”
A short (3:13) look at the history of Labor Day. Nothing happens without Labor
From Progress Iowa:
As we head toward Labor Day weekend, we are once again excited to promote the entire month of September as Labor Union Appreciation Month, and we need your support more than ever!
This year, the stakes are even higher. With increasing attacks on unions from Republican lawmakers and anti-worker proposals from initiatives like Project 2025, it’s crucial to stand up and show our solidarity with labor unions. Our effort over the past several years has grown significantly, gaining statewide recognition and press coverage. Proclamations have been passed in counties and city councils across the state, highlighting the vital role unions play in our communities.
Unions are a cornerstone of fair work conditions: as union membership rises, inequality declines, the race and gender wage gap narrows, and everyone’s wages and benefits improve. The contributions of unions extend far beyond Labor Day, and that’s why we are advocating for an entire month to recognize their impact. {ed. note: my bolding}
Attacks on workers’ rights at the state and federal level, along with proposed changes to IPERS by Iowa’s DOGE committee, mean Iowans must stand strong together with our labor unions this month and year-round. In the past two years, over 100 labor unions, organizations, businesses, and elected officials joined us in solidarity, and we aim to exceed that support in 2025. If you or any group you are connected with would like to be featured on our website at ThankAUnion.com, please let us know. We will continue to update the website throughout the month, which will remain live year-round.
Here’s how you can help:
- Sign the petition – Add your union/organization/business by signing the petition or replying directly to us.
- Encourage a proclamation – Contact your local city council, county board of supervisors, or school district (check out our sample proclamation).
- Share this email – Spread the word! We want to unite as many friends of labor as possible.
- Promote on social media – Use the toolkit at ThankAUnion.com to share information, research, and sample messaging about the importance of unions year-round.
Thank you all for standing with us in support of unions and their critical role in our society. We hope you can join an event in your community to recognize Labor Day. Together, let’s make Labor Union Appreciation Month 2025 a powerful statement against anti-worker initiatives and a celebration of solidarity.
In solidarity,
Amy Adams
Partnerships Director | Progress Iowa
Blog For Iowa 