A rapidly spreading wildfire in San Gabriel Canyon, named the “Bridge Fire,” has consumed over 34,000 acres since it was first reported on Sunday afternoon. The fire began around 3 p.m. near East Fork and Glendora Mountain roads in Los Angeles County and has continued to grow with zero containment, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Within 12 hours, the fire exploded in size due to high winds and dry conditions, making firefighting efforts especially difficult.

Local authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for several areas in both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. Impacted regions in Los Angeles County include zones LAC-E171, LAC-E170-C, LAC-E172-A, LAC-E144, LAC-E143, LAC-E172-C, LAC-E128, and LAC-E126-B. Meanwhile, San Bernardino County has ordered evacuations in zones BLD01, WWD01, WWD02, and WWD03.

In addition to the mandatory orders, evacuation warnings have been issued for nearby areas. In Los Angeles County, these warnings cover zones LAC-E104, LAC-E105-A, LAC-E105-B, LAC-E106, LAC-E107, LAC-E126-A, LAC-E126-C, LAC-E127, LAC-E169, LAC-E170-A, LAC-E170-B, LAC-E172-B, and LAC-Q1340. In San Bernardino County, the zones under warning include DFR-6-22, PIN02, and PIN01. Authorities are urging residents in these areas to prepare for potential evacuation.

Evacuation centers have been set up to assist those forced to leave their homes. The Hacienda Heights Community Center, located at 1234 Valencia Avenue in Hacienda Heights, and the Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center, located at 15556 Summit Avenue in Fontana, are currently open to evacuees.

Numerous road closures have also been put into effect to ensure public safety. These include San Gabriel Canyon and East Fork of the San Gabriel River, Highway 39, East Fork Road, Glendora Ridge Road, Glendora Mountain Road, and the Mt. Baldy Road at Shinn Road intersection.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. High winds, coupled with low humidity and the dry landscape, have significantly contributed to the fire’s rapid spread. Despite the size and intensity of the fire, no injuries have been reported as of yet.

In addition to battling the Bridge Fire, firefighting teams are simultaneously working on two other major fires in Southern California — the Airport Fire in Trabuco Canyon and the Line Fire in San Bernardino County. Containment efforts continue as crews fight against challenging conditions in an attempt to control the flames and prevent further destruction.

As the U.S. prepares to observe Labor Day on Monday, September 2, many are curious about why this holiday, dedicated to honoring American workers, is celebrated in September rather than May. This article explores the historical origins of Labor Day, its unique September timing, and its current significance.

Historical Roots of Labor Day

Labor Day’s origins trace back to the late 19th century, a time of significant labor unrest and industrial strife in the United States. The pivotal event that led to the establishment of Labor Day was the Haymarket Riot, which occurred in Chicago on May 4, 1886. This riot was a dramatic climax to a series of labor strikes demanding improved working conditions, fair wages, and an eight-hour workday.

The Haymarket Riot was marked by violence when a bomb was thrown at police officers, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. This incident highlighted the intense struggle between laborers and industrialists and led to the formation of the labor movement’s International Workers’ Day, celebrated globally on May 1.

Why September Instead of May?

In the wake of the Haymarket Riot, the association of May Day with radicalism and violence led to a preference for a different date for Labor Day in the United States. The first official Labor Day observance took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City. Organized by the Central Labor Union and other labor groups, the event featured a parade and festivities celebrating workers and their contributions to society.

In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a bill making Labor Day a federal holiday. The decision to set Labor Day on the first Monday in September was strategic. According to the Department of Labor, this date was chosen to avoid the political and radical connotations associated with May 1. Additionally, September provided a convenient and neutral alternative, bridging the gap between the Independence Day celebrations on July 4 and Thanksgiving in November.

Current Significance and Observance

Today, Labor Day serves both as a tribute to the American workforce and as a marker of the end of summer. Federal offices, schools, and banks are closed, giving many Americans a long weekend to enjoy. Retailers often capitalize on this extended weekend with special sales and promotions, attracting shoppers with discounts.

Despite its evolution into a holiday marked by picnics, parades, and leisure activities, Labor Day retains its core mission of recognizing the contributions of workers. It is a reminder of the labor movement’s achievements and the ongoing importance of workers’ rights.

Conclusion

Labor Day’s September observance reflects historical decisions aimed at creating a distinct and uncontroversial holiday for American workers, separate from the radical associations of May Day. As Americans celebrate this year’s Labor Day, it’s a fitting time to remember the origins of the holiday and the significant role workers play in shaping the nation’s economy and society.