SunstarTV Bureau: International Labour Day is observed every year on May 1 to mark the achievements of the workers and to spread awareness about exploitation. Also known as International Worker’s Day and May Day, is observed across the globe. As the day is here we have brought you some necessary details that will help you in understanding the importance of this special day.
Labour Day History:
May 1 is observed as an ancient northern hemisphere spring festival, however, it became associated with the labour movement in the late 19th century after trade unions and socialist groups designated it as a day in support of workers. The date was chosen to be International Workers’ Day to commemorate the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago in the US, in which a peaceful rally in support of workers led to a violent clash with the police, leading to the deaths of at least 38 civilians and 7 police officers. While 60 police officers and 115 civilians were injured. Those who died due to the clash were hailed as “Haymarket Martyrs”.
The 1904 Sixth Conference of the Second International, called on “all Social Democratic Party organisations and trade unions of all countries to demonstrate energetically on the First of May for the legal establishment of the eight-hour day, for the class demands of the proletariat, and for universal peace.”
Labour Day Significance:
Labour Day commemorates past labour struggles against workers’ rights violations, including lengthy workdays and weeks, poor conditions and child labour.
In dozens of countries, May Day is an official holiday. In the US and Canada, Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September.
