NAIROBI, Kenya – International Labour Day, or May Day, celebrated on May 1st every year, stands as a tribute to the workers whose dedication and efforts have shaped economies and communities across the globe.
As a day dedicated to the celebration of workers’ contributions, Labour Day also highlights the importance of empowering workers with knowledge about their rights and the continuous fight for better working conditions.
Origins of Labour Day: The Fight for Workers’ Rights
The roots of Labour Day trace back to the United States in the late 19th century, where industrial workers launched a nationwide strike for an eight-hour workday in 1886.
This movement culminated in the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where a peaceful demonstration turned violent after a bomb was detonated, killing several police officers and civilians.
The event remains a pivotal moment in the establishment of May 1st as a day to commemorate workers’ rights.
Internationally, Labour Day quickly became a symbol of solidarity for workers, a day to honour their struggles and the progress made towards achieving fair wages and better working conditions.
While Labour Day’s origins lie in the U.S., it spread to many countries, each marking the day with its own unique celebrations.
In India, Labour Day was first observed in 1923 in Chennai and has since become a significant day for advocating for social justice and workers’ rights.
This observance serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting workers from exploitation and ensuring equitable treatment across all sectors of the economy.
Global Significance of Labour Day
Labour Day serves as a reminder of the historic and ongoing struggles faced by workers worldwide.
It honors their dedication, while also raising awareness about issues such as salary increments, job security, working hours, and social protection.
The day symbolizes the immense contributions of workers in shaping economies and societies, highlighting the need for fair wages, improved working conditions, and the end of exploitation.
The day has grown to be a global celebration with millions of people participating in rallies, marches, and public events.
Labour Day is not only about reflection but also a call to action, ensuring that workers’ rights continue to evolve and improve, particularly in the face of ongoing global challenges.
Labour Day Around the World: Celebrations and Observances
In many countries, Labour Day is a national holiday, with various events and seminars to showcase workers’ contributions.
Countries like China, Tanzania, South Africa, Tunisia, Kenya, and many Indian states—including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal—observe the day as a public holiday.
On this day, workers gather to celebrate their achievements, with governments and trade unions hosting speeches, discussions, and activities that highlight the issues affecting their communities.
In Kenya, Labour Day is also a moment of reflection. It has been commemorated annually since May 1, 1964, when the country first celebrated International Workers’ Day as an independent nation.
The day in Kenya is often marked by public events organized by trade unions, with speeches from prominent figures, including leaders from the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) and the Cabinet Secretary for Labour.
Discussions often revolve around workers’ concerns, especially in light of rising living costs, with calls for salary increases and improved working conditions.
As of 2023, Kenya’s labour force reached 25.5 million, reflecting an ongoing demand for work despite economic challenges.
The rise in Kenya’s labour force underscores the importance of recognising the essential role of workers in the nation’s development.
The Ongoing Fight for Workers’ Rights
Globally, the number of employed individuals has steadily increased, with Statista estimating that the global workforce in 2024 will reach 3.5 billion.
However, this growth has not been without setbacks, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw a sharp decline in employment.
Labour Day serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a reminder of the challenges workers still face worldwide.
Labour Day is not only a day to celebrate workers’ achievements but also a powerful call to action for greater progress in improving the conditions and welfare of workers around the world.
It reminds us that there is still much to be done to ensure fair treatment, dignity, and justice in the workplace for all.
