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WHEREAS, the first unions arose in the middle ages, as artisans from the various skilled trades formed "guilds" to represent their common interests; and
WHEREAS, the beginnings of the American Federation of Labor (AFL) took shape in 1881 right here in Pittsburgh, at Turner Hall, Downtown; and
WHEREAS, it was also here that the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) was molded in 1938 at the Islam Grotto on Pittsburgh's North Side; and
WHEREAS, Labor Day originated in 1882 as the Central Labor Union of New York City sought to create "a day off for the working citizens," and
WHEREAS, Congress proclaimed Labor Day a national holiday in 1894 to honor the contributions of all workers - union and nonunion - to our economic and social life; and
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh's 27th annual Labor Day Parade is the largest Labor Day parade in the United States that honors the men and women whose efforts have helped build and sustain America and the region; and
WHEREAS, President John F. Kennedy said, "The American labor movement has consistently demonstrated its devotion to the public interest. It is, and has been, good for all America. Those who would destroy or further limit the rights of organized labor - those who cripple collective bargaining or prevent organization of the unorganized - do a disservice to the cause of democracy."; and
WHEREAS, Labor Day celebrations are even more important during tough economic times to represent the common interests of all workers to business owners, the government, and the public; and
WHEREAS, the leadership of the 2011 Labor Day Parade Committee reflects our ongoing commitment to improve the quality of life for all working people in the City of Pittsburgh;
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend and congratulate the 2011 Labor Day Parade Committee, and does hereby declare this week to be "2011 Labor Day Parade Committee Week" in the City of Pittsburgh.