Labor Day USA 2002

“As we approach Labor Day 2002, we face many challenges as a nation and as a Church….. In tough times like these, we look to people of courage and candor, fidelity and wisdom. Last May, we lost just such a person in Monsignor George G. Higgins.
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For decades he was the author of our Conference’s “Labor Day Statement.”Work has a special place in our Catholic tradition. It is much more than just a job. While it is the way most people meet their material needs and provide for their families, it is also a way to contribute to the community. As we participate in our own small way in God’s continuing creation, our work promotes the common good and reflects our human dignity.

For too many Americans, especially those at the bottom of the economic ladder, decent work is not available or does not meet their family’s basic needs. A worker with two children, earning the minimum wage of $5.15 an hour has to work more than 53 hours per week to live just above the poverty line. Unfortunately, many workers can find no more than part-time work, so they take two jobs, at significant cost to their family’s well-being and their own.

For some other Americans, those moving up the economic ladder, meeting their own economic aspirations can consume so much of their time and energy that they may neglect other essential parts of their lives. Many workers, often encouraged by employer’s expectations, spend so much time and energy at work, away from their family, away from their home, that raising children and contributing to community life are neglected or secondary pursuits.

This is not the way it should be. Work should strengthen our family life, providing resources and respect, benefits and health care for families. Work should enhance our family, community, and spiritual lives. Work should allow a family to live in dignity.

For the complete statement visit http://www.nccbuscc.org/sdwp/national/lbrfinal.htm