Introduction:
Around the world, Labour Day is celebrated on May 1. But do you know how it started? The first international get-together of European socialist parties was held in 1889 in Paris. It was during this historic moment that they proclaimed that the 1st of May would be dedicated to the labourers and international unity of workers. It is, therefore, a national holiday in India and several countries in the world.
The major inspiration for this proclamation was the violent confrontation between the police and workers. They were protesting unfair working conditions and demanded 8- hour workdays. This incident eventually led to the formation of labour unions and amendments to labour laws.
Labour Day in India
In India, the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, organised the celebration in Chennai for the first time in 1923. Internationally also, May 1st is known as Workers’ Day or International Labour Day. But here’s a surprising fact: In the US and Canada, Labour Day is observed on the first Monday in September.
Why is Labour Day important:
However, the sentiments behind the observance remain the same. It aims to highlight the achievements of ordinary workers, who are otherwise not given any importance by society. Labour Day celebrations remind us of the immense contribution of labourers in all fields. Without labourers, we would not have the homes we live in, the schools we study in, or the offices we work in.
All of us need to be thankful to the workers for their services.
FAQs
1. What date did the US choose to celebrate Labour Day?
There is no fixed date for Labour Day celebrations in the US and Canada. Instead, they observe it on the first Monday of September, whatever the date.
2. Do all countries observe May 1st as Labour Day?
No. Apart from the US and Canada, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Australia also observe Labour Day.
3. Is the distress call ‘Mayday, Mayday’ connected to Labour Day?
There is no connection between Labour Day and the distress call. However, it is believed that the French word for ‘help me,’ ‘M’aider’ was used, and over time, it became ‘Mayday.’
4. What is Labour Day called in India?
Labour Day is called ‘Antarrashtriya Shramik Divas’ and ‘Kamgar Din’. In different states, it is translated into the local language.
5. What were the workers in the Chicago Haymarket protesting?
They were protesting poor working conditions, long hours, child labor, and poor wages and demanded to be treated better.
