Everything you need to know about International Workers’ Day

Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day or May Day, is a global celebration of workers and their rights. It emerged from the struggles of labourers during the industrial era, when long hours, unsafe conditions and low wages were common. Over time, it became a powerful symbol of unity, protest and progress for working people around the world. (unsplash)

Industrial Revolution and harsh working conditions: During the 19th century, workers, often including children, laboured for 10 to 16 hours a day in unsafe factories. These harsh conditions sparked early labour movements demanding better rights and shorter workdays. (unsplash)

Rise of labour unions: Workers began organising into unions to demand fair wages, safer workplaces and an eight-hour workday, which became a central demand across industrial nations. (unsplash)

The Haymarket Affair: On May 4, 1886, a labour protest in Chicago turned violent when a bomb was thrown at police, leading to deaths and injuries on both sides. This event became a defining moment in the global fight for workers’ rights. (wikimedia commons)

Birth of International Workers’ Day: In 1889, the Second International declared May 1 as International Workers’ Day to honour the Haymarket martyrs and the labour movement.

Global spread of Labour Day: The observance spread worldwide, with countries adopting May 1 as a day to celebrate workers and demand social and economic justice. (unsplash)

Significance today: Today, Labour Day stands for workers’ rights, fair wages, safe conditions and dignity of labour. It also reminds us of past struggles that led to rights like regulated working hours and labour laws. (unsplash)