DES MOINES, Iowa — For some, Labor Day is a three-day weekend to wrap up the summer, but it's also a day to remember, honor and celebrate the evolution of workplace protections.
Hundreds of local labor union members and leaders gathered at the Union Labor Park to enjoy a day of music, food and company.
"It is the celebration of the American worker, whether you're union or non-union," said Charlie Wishman, President of the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO. "This is about celebrating the work and the productivity that American workers have."
It's also a day where traditions are made.
"It means, to me, that I get to spend time with my dad and my family," said Kole Fleaming who was celebrating Labor Day.
Labor Day was created to bring different types of workers together to recognize similar interests.
The day reflects on the evolution of the workforce. Labor Day began because workers felt they were spending too many hours and days on the job. Some workers faced 70-hour work weeks, spanning across the entire week.
Iowa Union leaders reflected today on where the workforce is now, compared to before.
"We're really at a moment in history where people, and especially young people, are really, really taking it on themselves and really wanting to empower themselves and their coworkers," Wishman said.
Wishman added that aside from enjoying the day, people also should remember those who fought so we could have not only a holiday, but also workplace protections.
Leaders are now inspiring a new generation, welcoming all ages to celebrate and hoping to continue the evolution.
"It's really cool because he [Fleaming's Dad] is the vice president of this whole thing, and he likes doing this," Fleaming said. "He's a carpenter, and he works out in the field, and he trains other people to be carpenters."
Union leaders add that today is also a day for people with all types of backgrounds, communities and fields, saying this day adds a balance to the country.