WHEREAS, Labor Day honors the contributions and achievements of working people whose dedication strengthens the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States; and

 

WHEREAS, generations of Virginia workers have built communities, supported families, advanced innovation, and contributed to the Commonwealth's economy; and

 

WHEREAS, workers across Virginia—from the coalfields of Southwest Virginia and farms of the Shenandoah Valley and Eastern Shore to the railways, ports, and shipyards of Hampton Roads—have helped shape the Commonwealth; and

 

WHEREAS, labor unions have played an important role in advocating for safer workplaces, better benefits, and workers' voices on the job; and

 

WHEREAS, Virginia is strengthening economic security for its approximately 4.3 million workers through expanded paid family and medical leave, statewide paid sick leave, increased worker protections, and legislation raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour by January 1, 2028; and

 

WHEREAS, Virginia remains committed to supporting working people, strengthening the workforce, promoting economic growth, and ensuring that workers have opportunities to succeed.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize September 7, 2026, as LABOR DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.