A truly American sentiment recognizes the dignity of labor and the fact that honor lies in honest toil. Contented labor is an element of national prosperity. Ability to work constitutes the capital and the wage of labor the income of a vast number of our population, and this interest should be jealously protected. Our workingmen are not asking unreasonable indulgence, but as intelligent and manly citizens they seek the same consideration which those demand who have other interests at stake. They should receive their full share of the care and attention of those who make and execute the laws, to the end that the wants and needs of the employers and the employed shall alike be subserved and the prosperity of the country, the common heritage of both, be advanced.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Labor dignity and honest work drive national prosperity. Workers deserve equal legal consideration and protection as their labor is essential capital.
- In plain terms
- Honest work is valuable and should be protected by law for everyone's benefit.
- What can you take from it?
- Protect workers' rights to ensure national prosperity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we define honest toil today?
- Are workers receiving their full share of care?
Another view
The quote assumes all labor is honest without addressing systemic exploitation.
More from Grover Cleveland
WHATEVER YOU DO, TELL THE TRUTH.
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