
Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is an annual observance held on May 1st to honour the valuable contributions of workers to society. The day is marked by various festivities, including parades and parties, celebrating the labour force’s role in national development.
Labour Day Dates:
Labour Day is celebrated on different dates worldwide. In India, it falls on May 1st, while in the United States and Canada, it occurs on the first Monday of September.
History of Labour Day:
The roots of Labour Day trace back to 1889 when socialist groups and trade unions designated May 1st to support workers, commemorating the Haymarket Riot of 1886 in Chicago. In 1894, US President Grover Cleveland signed legislation to establish Labour Day as a federal holiday, coinciding with existing celebrations in some states on the first Monday of September. In India, the first Labour Day celebration was organized in Chennai on May 1st, 1923, by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. In Europe, Labour Day became an official holiday in Germany in 1933.
Significance of Labour Day:
Labour Day serves as a poignant reminder of the crucial role workers play in nation-building. It raises awareness of workers’ rights and aims to protect them from exploitation while encouraging efforts to enhance working conditions.
Celebrating Labour Day:
Labour Day is celebrated as a national holiday in many countries. Events and seminars highlight workers’ achievements, while rallies and parades educate and unite the working class in advocating for their rights.