Labor Day has deep roots here in Massachusetts. The famous “Bread and Roses” strike of 1912 in Lawrence—led by mill workers demanding dignity, fair wages, and humane conditions—remains one of the most powerful reminders of the strength and unity of working people. This holiday honors not just that history, but the everyday contributions of people whose work sustains families, communities, and our way of life.

For me, it’s also personal. I grew up in Lowell, where my parents embodied the very values that Labor Day represents. My father was a captain in the Lowell Fire Department, and my mother worked as a pediatric nurse in the local hospital. Both were proud, blue-collar workers whose example taught me not only the value of hard work, but also the importance of integrity, compassion, and service to others.

Today, I see those same values reflected in the people we represent. For health care providers, business owners, and caregivers, Labor Day is rarely a true day off. Patients still need care, operations still need attention, and responsibilities do not pause. That dedication—caring for others and sustaining essential services even when the rest of the world takes a break—is a profound testament to the meaning of this holiday.

As we celebrate Labor Day, let us honor the legacy of Massachusetts’ labor history, and also recognize the ongoing work of those who continue to build better lives for their families and communities through service, sacrifice, and commitment.

On behalf of the Alliance, I extend my best wishes for a safe, restorative, and enjoyable Labor Day.