The Birmingham age-herald., 1924-09-03
THE LABOR DAY SPEECHES

HE LADOh DA EISAAN1
 Although MT. LaFollette has laid claim to the labor vote in this country, it is noted that Mir. Davis and MT. Cool idge discussed the problems of labor more constructively than MT. LaFollette in the Labor Day efforts. Of the three addresses, that of the Democratic nominee stands out as distinctively the sanest and most thoughtful. MT. Coolidge specific ally recognizes the right of labor to strike, which is not an issue. But it places the emphasis on the wrong factor in the settlement of labor prob lems and differences. While MT. Cool idge is stressing the right to strike, MT. Davis is discussing ways in which labor can receive just treatment without be- ing driven to that resort. The right men have to quit their jobs when they so de- sire is inherent. The only contest on this point has been that the strikers have no right to intimidate or to destroy property Labor itself now is coming to realize that victories are more satis- factory, more permanent and less costly when won by arbitration than when won by strikes.
 Both the major candidates urge ar bitration in such disputes, MT, Coolidge somewhat begging the question by speci- flying that such arbitration should not be compulsory, as if seeking to win favor by thus singling out a contingency not contemplated. Where the labor dema- gogue is absent, labor difficulties usually lend themselves quite readily to amicable adjustment. It is also being recognized that all points cannot be set tied at one time. Nor can labor expect to have it's demands completely met by any given date. The progress that has been made towards full justice to the workingman has not been by sudden flight, but by steady approach to the goal. There are many employers who have met their men more than halfway in many respects, for it is being recog- nized that contentment on the part of 1SQ0SSo CilC HONCI Ol 1dUOI thus adding to the efficiency of opera tion and consequently lowering the cost of production. Better living conditions, improved sanitary surroundings, educa- tional advantages and other factors in enjoyable existence are proving of value in increasing the mutual respect of em- ployers and employees, and in advancing that more complete understanding 50 es- sential to a just relationship.
 It is significant of MT. Davis's sound sense, as opposed to MT. LaFollette's jingoism, that he would win justice fol labor, not by curbing the power of the courts to administer the law, but by re- vising and amending the laws so that theil administration will benefit and not injure the situation. The fault lies with law. making bodies and not with the courts. MT. Davis is, however, opposed to the tendency of government to invoke in- functions beyond the usual purport of the law by having them applied through constructive and not literal interpre- tation of the law. Injunctions have their proper place in law, and are a powerful weapon but they should not be used unjustly nor to enable the government to circumvent an issue or a situation which should be met fully and frankly
 It is evident that MT. Coolidge seeks to mollify labor without giving its con- fidence any sound basis on which to rest This is particularly true when he cites the protective tariff, under which labor pays an exorbitant living tax, as protec- tive of labor's welfare. MT. LaFollette paints rainbow, but after all is said and done it is but a painted rainbow MT. Davis sanely and constructively har- monizes our existing agencies into a force that give equal justice to all with out distinctions based on false notions or customs. His speech sounds the most reassuring note of all to the great body of the American people.