ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) — Monday, September 1, marked Labor Day, a federal holiday that recognizes the contributions workers put into their communities. The Labor Day picnic in Stewart Park had the traditional hot dogs, hamburgers, and watermelon. However, it also provided people with the opportunity to learn about unions in the Ithaca area.

Labor Day is celebrated throughout the country to recognize the social and economic achievements of workers past and present. According to the US Department of Labor, the holiday was first started by labor activists in the late 1800s.

"We are out here for Labor Day, celebrating labor, celebrating workers, celebrating community out here in Ithaca," said Kathryn Cernera, the President of the Ithaca Teachers Association.

Cernera's group fights for the rig

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