MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar issued the following statement in honor of Labor Day:

“Labor Day is a time to celebrate all the workers who have strengthened our country. And especially during this pandemic, it’s a time to thank the men and women on the frontlines helping us get through this difficult time. We owe them a debt of gratitude.

“Although we may not be able to come together with our friends and families the same way we have in past years, the spirit of Labor Day is alive and well. Our fight for good wages, safe working conditions, and a secure retirement for every American hasn’t changed and it has, in fact, taken on new importance. 

“For me, Labor Day has always been personal. My grandpa was a miner who quit school at age 15 to support his nine brothers and sisters. He worked as a Teamster, pulling a wagon before going to work 1,500 feet underground in the mines.

“My dad was a newspaper man and member of the newspaper guild. My mom was a public school teacher who loved telling stories of attending labor meetings, standing in the back on top of a folding chair so she could see Minnesota’s Senator, Hubert Humphrey, talk about making sure workers could keep the right to stand up for themselves.

“The fight to improve workers’ lives is at the heart of the American story, and during these challenging times we must work together like never before. That’s what our state is about and that’s what America is about. Our country has always promised that if you are willing to work hard, you have a fair shot at building a better life for your family. Right now that promise is being tested, but by staying united and supporting our workers—the backbone of our economy—we will get through this.

“So have a happy and safe Labor Day! Let’s celebrate our incredible workers, especially those working on the frontlines every day. We need them now more than ever.”  

###