The origins of May Day

[Doug Henwood]

Wojtek Sokolowski wrote:

>BTW, what is the history behing the 'labor day' in this country.  A
>government bureacrat fiat?
>
>Another issue, has anyone thought of the idea of reparations to labor for
>miscarriages of justice by agents of this state?

                              THE WHITE HOUSE

                       Office of the Press Secretary
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   For Immediate Release  April 25, 2001



                             LOYALTY DAY, 2001

                               - - - - - - -

          BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

                              A PROCLAMATION


Two hundred and twenty-five years ago, America's founders faced a 
decisive crossroads.  Thomas Jefferson later remembered "the bold and 
doubtful election we were to make for our country, between submission 
or the sword." They chose the sword, and a Nation was born.

Today, we celebrate our loyalty to this country and to the principles 
for which America stands.  Americans demonstrate their dedication by 
protecting our Nation and its people, promoting our commonly held 
ideals, and passing these values on to future generations.

Many Americans display their loyalty through careers in public 
service. Members of our Armed Forces ensure that our Nation remains 
strong and secure, as well as defend democracy around the 
world.  Domestically, law enforcement officers and the professionals 
working in our judicial system maintain the peace and uphold the rule 
of law on which our society depends. Countless other Americans also 
work to protect us from dangers that threaten our safety and 
resources.

Americans have not let the dream of "a more perfect Union" fade with 
the passing of time.  Rather, each new generation, along with 
millions of immigrants, has promoted ideals that lead to the 
archetype that the founders envisioned.  Heroes have risen to fight 
for freedom, abolition of slavery, universal suffrage, civil rights, 
and other principles that form the foundation of our Nation.  Today, 
citizens across the country continue this tradition by giving their 
time and effort to causes greater than themselves.  Whether through 
charitable, civic, or church activities, Americans demonstrate their 
loyalty by working to improve our country and the lives of its people.

Perhaps the most basic and important means by which we display 
loyalty to our country is by passing on to our children the hope and 
idealism that is an important part of the American spirit.  Parents 
have the important task in ensuring that our Nation's future leaders 
are prepared to assume the responsibilities they will face.  Teachers 
play essential roles in molding our young people, and they deserve 
our gratitude and respect for their dedication.  Ministers and other 
mentors also give of themselves by introducing children to the vast 
opportunities that our Nation holds.  By spending time with a child, 
Americans invest in the future of our country.

Loyalty Day recognizes the solemn bond between America and its 
citizens. It provides an opportunity to recognize those who 
demonstrate their loyalty every day and challenges all of us to find 
more ways to contribute to the greater good of our country.

The Congress, by Public Law 85-529, has designated May 1 of each 
year, as "Loyalty Day," and I encourage all Americans to join me this 
day in reaffirming our allegiance to our blessed Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 
2001, as Loyalty Day.  I call upon all the people of the United 
States in support of this national observance.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day 
of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twenty-fifth.

                                GEORGE W. BUSH

========================================================================


                                THE WHITE HOUSE

                         Office of the Press Secretary
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      For Immediate Release   May 1, 2001

                              LAW DAY, U.S.A., 2001

                                   - - - - - - -

              BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

                                  A PROCLAMATION


      This year marks the 44th commemoration of May 1 as Law Day, 
U.S.A., a national day of observance to celebrate our legal 
heritage.  On this occasion, we reflect on the role our legal system 
plays in the lives of every American and how the freedoms we enjoy 
would not be possible without a strong and independent 
judiciary.  The theme of this year's Law Day, "Ensuring the Rights of 
Victims," acknowledges our gratitude for a legal system that 
recognizes the importance of protecting the rights of those who are 
victimized by crime.

      This Law Day, I call upon all Americans to consider how the law, 
communities, and individuals can better assist and support victims of 
crime.  We must continue to strive for a legal system in which 
victims receive timely and accurate information regarding offenders 
and relevant public proceedings.  In appropriate circumstances, a 
victim of crime should have an opportunity for restitution.  In 
addition, social services provided to victims of crime can give the 
assistance and support that victims deserve in the aftermath of crime.

      We are encouraged by the progress our country has made over the 
last three decades toward better assisting those whose lives are 
affected by criminal offenses.  However, government and laws cannot 
effectively address this issue alone.  More than 10,000 State- or 
community-based organizations provide help and hope to crime 
victims.  I encourage Americans to celebrate, support, and consider 
joining these volunteers and other workers in service to their fellow 
citizens.

      Keeping faith with our commitment to the victims of crime also 
drives us to increased efforts to prevent crimes and effectively 
punish those who commit them, to ensure that similar violations are 
discouraged and law-abiding citizens are protected.

      Law Day provides an opportunity to express appreciation to 
professionals who accept the responsibility to serve justice.  From 
attorneys to judges to the many other professionals working in our 
legal system, those who serve justice uphold the rule of law on which 
our democracy is built.  They join with law enforcement professionals 
to give our people confidence to live without fear for their safety.

      We must each do our part to build a Nation in which civility and 
respect for our neighbors overwhelm the powers of injustice. As 
Thomas Jefferson wrote, "It is reasonable that every one who asks 
justice should do justice."  I encourage all Americans to join with 
members of the legal community in protecting the rights of crime 
victims and in celebrating a legal system that, while not perfect, is 
the best the world has ever known.

      NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United 
States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the 
Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 1, 
2001, as Law Day, U.S.A.  I call upon all the people of the United 
States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and 
activities.  I also call upon Government officials to display the 
flag of the United States in support of this national observance.

      IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth 
day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twenty-fifth.

                               GEORGE W. BUSH