This Monday, February 17th, we observe President’s Day — a federal holiday originally established to honor George Washington, whose birthday falls on February 22nd. First celebrated in 1800, the holiday became one of the nation’s earliest federal recognitions of a public figure. Over time, it has evolved to honor all U.S. presidents, and today it’s widely observed as a day to reflect on American history and the values that have shaped this country.
What many people don’t know is that the labor movement played a significant role in the fight for federal holidays themselves. Workers across industries — including our predecessors in the communications and utility sectors — organized and pushed for fair hours, days off, and the recognition that employees deserved time away from work. President’s Day, being a paid federal holiday, isn’t just a given; it’s a benefit that was hard-won through decades of collective bargaining and worker advocacy.
As members of the Communications Workers of America, we stand in a long tradition of workers who refused to accept less than they deserved. The same democratic ideals that President’s Day asks us to reflect on — fairness, representation, and dignity — are the very principles that guide our union every day at the bargaining table and on the job.
So while you enjoy the day off with your families, take a moment to appreciate not just the presidents this holiday honors, but the working men and women throughout history who fought to make sure that day off was guaranteed.
From all of us at CWA Local 9003, happy President’s Day.