International Workers' Day: Solidarity Around the World
People worldwide celebrate International Workers' Day, also known as May Day or Labor Day, on May 1. As a national holiday in most of the world, it recognizes the social and economic accomplishments of workers who have fought for fair pay, improved working conditions, and labor rights.
May Day is an occasion for rallies and marches highlighting the enduring struggle for workers' rights. It has roots in the labor movement's fight for an eight-hour workday; it reminds us of their sacrifices. Read on to learn more.
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History and Background of International Workers’ Day
International Workers' Day, also known as May Day or Labour Day, dates back to the late 19th century. It originated in the American labor movement as a response to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago on May 4, 1886.
During a peaceful rally, a bomb was hurled at the police, causing an alarming number of casualties and putting the spotlight on workers' rights, which became a global issue.
In 1889, the Second International, an alliance of socialist and labor political parties, officially recognized May 1st as International Workers' Day. This recognition came after years of tireless campaigning by labor unions and social activists, with the first official recognition in 1891.
Despite its origins, the United States does not nationally recognize the day as a federal holiday. Instead, Labor Day is celebrated in the US on the first Monday in September. It also marked the Sunday preceding Labor Day as Labor Sunday, devoted to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement.
The country first celebrated Labor Day on September 5, 1882, according to the plans laid out by the Central Labor Union. However, many Americans assume that only communist countries like Cuba or the old Soviet Union celebrate this occasion. Still, many Americans take vacations during the Labor Day weekend.
Over the years, the Labor Day holiday has evolved into a global observance, no longer limited to fair wages and safe working conditions. It celebrates the social and economic achievements of the international labor movement.
The Cause and Its Challenges
The one-day event brings to the fore key labor issues garnering worldwide attention. These issues are broad in range and complex in their impact.
Foremost among them is income and wage disparity. As per the International Labor Organization, around 214 million people, or 6.4% of workers worldwide, live with their families on less than $1.9 per person per day. This alarming statistic shows there are employees who remain in extreme poverty.
Secondly, occupational hazards and safety breaches continue to occur1. At the end of 2019, ILO reported that work-related factors led to approximately 2.93 million worker deaths, a 12% increase since 2000. Of these, 2.6 million deaths were due to work-related diseases, and 330,000 were accident-induced.
Thirdly, the gender opportunity and wage gap is a persisting issue. The World Economic Forum indicates that, at the current pace, it will take another 169 years to achieve economic parity3.
Fourthly, the global jobs gap, including 205 million unemployed and 268 million underemployed, reached a significant 473 million people in 2022, resulting in a 12.3% job gap rate.
Finally, according to ILO, the informal economy, accommodating approximately 2 billion workers2, keeps these laborers devoid of social protection, decent work conditions, and bargaining powers.
Such issues underline the pressing need for serious labor reforms. The labor holiday reminds us of these significant challenges, reinforcing the need for solidarity, advocacy, and action.
Efforts and Initiatives
International Workers' Day marks the international labor movement and celebrates workers' social and economic achievements worldwide.
Various organizations have played significant roles in shaping policies and setting labor standards to promote fair work and equitable labor practices. The International Labour Organization (ILO), established in 1919, has been at the forefront of these efforts.
In the United States, the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) campaigns for improved workplace safety and a higher minimum wage.
In Europe, the European Trade Union Confederation organizes annual marches and rallies to voice workers' concerns in the European Union.
Nonprofits like the Solidarity Center and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) use the annual event to magnify their voices and draw attention to workers' rights on a global scale.
Grassroots initiatives like the Fight for $15 in the U.S. use this public holiday to rally support for low-wage workers and advocate for better labor conditions.
How to Get Involved and Support International Workers’ Day
Labor Day celebrations are an effective platform for supporting fair labor practices and adding your voice to a larger call for action.
Joining local rallies or demonstrations is a direct way to get involved in this official holiday. Such events are usually organized by local unions or workers' rights groups.
Besides attending events like the Labor Day parade, social media is a powerful tool that spreads awareness about worker’s rights and concerns. Sharing facts, personal stories, and calls to action can reach people beyond your immediate network and help spark meaningful conversations about workers' rights.
To effectively advocate for workers' rights, we must have a good understanding of labor history. Watching documentaries, reading books, or listening to podcasts about labor history can provide a deeper understanding of past struggles and how they have shaped workers' rights today.
Discuss your knowledge with friends, write letters to local representatives, or make informed decisions about where to spend your money.
Consumers can contribute to workers' rights by supporting businesses prioritizing fair labor practices. Every purchase we make can be a statement about the kind of endorsed labor practices.
Conclusion
International Workers' Day highlights the working class's hard work, determination, and unity. It reminds us to advocate for workers' rights globally and take decisive action to address their challenges.
Fighting for workers' rights is fighting for human dignity, and we must support workers throughout the year. Let us take action and work towards creating a better future for all workers.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
International Workers' Day, also known as May Day or Labor Day, occurs every May 1 worldwide. It highlights workers' achievements and contributions and their rights, struggles, and the need for fair labor practices.
It commemorates workers' struggles and sacrifices to secure labor rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions.
You can participate in rallies or events advocating for workers' rights. You can also join labor unions or organizations or engage in solidarity with workers, such as supporting fair trade products.
Workers face workplace discrimination, unequal pay, lack of job security, and inadequate access to social protections.
| 1 | International Labour Organization. (2023). A call for safer and healthier working environments. |
| 2 | International Labour Organization. (2023). World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2023. |
| 3 | World Economic Forum. (2023). Global Gender Gap Report 2023. |
Mike is a degree-qualified researcher and writer passionate about increasing global awareness about climate change and encouraging people to act collectively in resolving these issues.
Fact Checked By:
Isabela Sedano, BEng.
