Every day, Central New Yorkers from all sectors of the workforce enable our economy and our communities to grow through their hard work and dedication. From manufacturing workers and teachers, to emergency responders and health care workers, everyone plays a critical role in building a better Central New York. So this Labor Day, join me in celebrating all that American workers have done and continue to do for our nation.

Here in New York, we have a long history of supporting our workers and making sure they have all the protections they deserve. Labor Day was first celebrated in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882, when 10,000 workers marched from City Hall to Union Square.1 Since then, New York has continued to support its workers and the efforts of organized labor that worked to improve the lives and livelihood of generations before us.

It was this kind of activism that resulted in monumental changes for our families, including reasonable hours and workplace health and safety. These efforts helped build the middle class as we know it, and brought security and stability to our families, our communities and our state.

Central New Yorkers have worked tirelessly to strengthen our local communities and move our economy forward and as a member of the Assembly, one of my top priorities has been to foster opportunities that help grow our businesses and protect our workforce.

I pushed through legislation creating the New York Buy American Act, which ensures American-made iron and steel are used in taxpayer-funded infrastructure projects that help bring more local jobs to our state (Ch. 451 of 2017). I also helped pass legislation to establish the country’s most comprehensive paid family leave law, ensuring hardworking New Yorkers don’t have to sacrifice their paycheck to care for a loved one or start a family of their own. I also helped pass legislation raising the minimum wage, providing workers with the salaries they deserve for their hard work. And I’ll continue to do my part and support hardworking Central New Yorkers in the state Assembly.

To celebrate our hardworking community members, join me on Monday, Sept. 3, at the New York State Fair for “Dollar Day,” where adult admission is just $1 all day (parking will still cost $5). Additionally, nearly all rides in the Wade Shows Midway will be $1 each. The festivities begin at 10:30 a.m. with the Labor Day rally, where workers of all stripes will march from Gate 4 to Chevy Court. Those interested in participating in the march should arrive at Gate 4 by 10 a.m. “Dollar Day” concludes with fireworks following the end of the 6 p.m. show at Chevy Court.

As always, I’m here to help. If you have questions or concerns about this or any community issue, please contact my office at StirpeA@nyassembly.gov or 315-452-1115.

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1. history.com/topics/holidays/labor-day