Hyderabad: May Day, also known as International Workers' Day or Labour's Day, is observed on May 1 every year across the globe to commemorate the contribution of the working class and fight injustice against those working in severe and unsafe environments.
The day also marks the time to celebrate the changing seasons, with roots in ancient festivals that welcome the start of spring. May Day is known for its joyful celebration of life and nature's renewal. People often dance around maypoles, a custom that dates back to medieval times, symbolising the vitality and fertility of the season.
May Day has different origin stories in different countries. It is most commonly associated as a commemoration of the achievements of the labour movement. The day is marked with a public holiday in over 80 countries.
OTD on May 1, 1886
- The labour class united to raise their voices against the unjust treatment that included 15 hours of work a day, poor working conditions leading to deaths and unfair wages.
- This was also a reason why the Labour day was propagated by various pressure groups.
- More than 3,00,000 workers in 13,000 businesses across the United States walked off their jobs in the first May Day celebration in history.
- In Chicago, the epicentre of the 8-hour day agitators, 40,000 went out on strike with the anarchists.
Significance of Labour Day
- Labour Day is a day that unites workers together and reminds them of their power when they act in unity.
- Labourers on this can feel respected for the work that they have done all over the year.
- On Labour Day, workers and their needs and rights are in focus.
- The day is significant as it enables workers to take some much-needed rest from their work and to collect their thoughts, spend time with their loved ones, or just recover their energies.
- This day motivates people to get into work and to work hard.
Importance of International Labour Day 2024
International Labour Day has a great significance in the current context, serving as a constant reminder of the on-going struggle for workers’ rights and social justice. In the world that is fraught with income disparities, labour exploitation and the challenges of automation and digitisation, the day serves as a platform to renew commitments to build a more just and equitable society. Apart from that, the International Labour Day is indeed an opportunity to address the important issues of oppression, employment and labour rights.
Facts About May Day
- The concept was first made public in 1882. The unions of New York City decided to hold a parade in September 1882 to celebrate their members' union membership and to show support for all unions. There were at least 20,000 people in attendance, and the workers had to forgo a day's pay to attend.
- It has made a huge impact today. Today, May Day is very popular! It is known as an official holiday in 66 countries and unofficially celebrated in more countries.
- It’s connected to astronomy. May 1 is one of the four cross-quartered days, midday between an equinox and solstice. What a time to celebrate!
- The Maypole Dance. May Day is probably best known now for the medieval tradition of "dancing the maypole dance," a custom that continues to be practiced. Fair young maidens circle the decorated pole weaving together patterns of ribbons in the process.
