The U.S. economy lost 33,000 jobs in September, and unemployment was little changed at 4.2%, according to figures released this morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The decline likely reflects the impact of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

This Manufacturing Day post is for all the dreamers out there. For the young men and women who will imagine and invent things that will make the world a better place. And for the folks who will make those incredible things right here in America.

On Oct. 2, 2017, the Irish American Democrats bestowed the Immigrant Achievement Award on James Boland, president of the Bricklayers. The following are excerpts from his acceptance speech:

America is a nation of immigrants. Always has been. Always will be. Many of us here know this first hand.

On Sept. 27, the United States, Canada and Mexico finished the third round of the North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiation talks. We’ve been told these talks will “get a better deal for our workers,” but the negotiating goals seem to prioritize getting a better deal for corporations that want to offshore jobs and decrease wages. That means NAFTA will continue to make it harder for you to get a raise. 

As the humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico continues, working people from across the country are joining together to help with recovery and rebuilding.