Labor, Love & Liberation: Reimagining Work for a New Era

Dr. Khnuma Simmonds
Sep 1
4 min read

Labor, Love, and Liberation: A Labor Day Reflection

Reflection: This image features an entrepreneur is her creative space. As we center love, labor and liberation, her glare is an invitation for us to ask ourselves: What does love in action look like for me—in my family, my work, and my community? — Reflection: This image features an entrepreneur is her creative space. As we center love, labor and liberation, her glare is an invitation for us to ask ourselves: *What does love in action look like for me—in my family, my work, and my community?*

Labor Day began as a tribute to workers who organized, advocated, and fought for fair labor rights in the United States. Behind the parades and barbecues is a legacy of advocacy—of ordinary people demanding dignity in their work, safety for their families, and a fair share of opportunity. For people of color and immigrants in this country, Labor Day carries an even deeper significance.

Many came to America with dreams and determination, building lives through small businesses, creative trades, and micro-enterprises that became the foundation of entire communities. They were entrepreneurs out of necessity, creatives by culture, and advocates by circumstance—pushing for better lives not only for themselves but for generations to come. Their labor was an act of survival, yes, but also an act of love: love for family, love for legacy, love for liberation.

And so, when we ask, what does Labor Day have to do with love?—the answer is everything. Here's how.