May Day - An International Observance

May Day or International Worker’s day is observed in many countries throughout the world including India every year on the 1st of May proclaiming the international labor moment. This day commemorates the historic struggles on the part of the workers and the movement started by the laborers in different countries all across the globe subsequently empowering the workers/laborers. It celebrates the famous Haymarket Riot which took place in Chicago, USA (1886). In 1889, an international federation of socialist groups and trade unions marked 1st May in the name of workers.

History and Significance of May Day?

In 1886, a general strike was announced in Chicago by the union of workers to protest against the draconian labor laws, poor working conditions, workers’ rights violations, and dreadful working hours (16 hours per day) but the riot turned out to be violent. As the crowd was not getting under control, the police contingent started shelling (open firing) and throwing bombs in the public gathering. This led to many workers getting injured and many getting killed who demanded an 8-hour workday. Years after the injury and murders of the peaceful protestors, the overseas movement took place with marches and uprisings wherein more workers joined the protest, thereafter this day is honored to date annually as International Worker’s Day. Since then, the day celebrates the sacrifice and contribution of workers to and for society.?

It was only in 1916 when the US started with 8 hours of working day. However, In India, the day become notable years later i.e. in 1923 initiated by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, and Comrade Singaravelar directed the celebrations. The day was first celebrated in Chennai, Tamil Nadu to get recognition for the rights of laborers and was named in Tamil Uzhaipalar Dhinam. In Hindi and Marathi, it was known by the name ‘Kamgar Din’.

May Day- An International Observance

May Day is celebrated worldwide to pay respect to the working people who once worked for more than 8 hours a day and were paid less. The Soviet Union was officially given commendation on May Day of the 20th century. The leaders of the Soviet Union embraced this day as a significant holiday as they believed that by doing this the workers of the United States and Europe will be encouraged to unite against capitalism. The workers asked for payment of extra remuneration in addition to the regular wages if daily working hours were extended. In England, the day is celebrated with Morris dancing and shaking a leg around a Maypole. In Germany, this day became an official holiday in 1933 following the rise of the Nazi party. A countrywide holiday is celebrated on this day every year in the majority of European nations such as Sweden, Poland, Finland, Italy, Norway, Spain, France, etc., and even other countries like Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Mexico, Panama, Uruguay, Guyana, Cuba, and Peru. In some places such as the USA, Canada, and Australia, the day comes at various times of the year.

Realizing the importance of labor welfare, government and organizations have become more sensitive towards the workforce, in recent years. The tireless hard work and contributions of the labor need to be recognized and highly praised. On this Labor Day, remember to salute the determination and hard work of countless workers who play a big role in India's and global progress.?