May Day

May Day, also known as International Workers' Day, is a celebration of laborers and the working class worldwide. Promoted by the international labor movement, May Day is of immense significance as it symbolizes the ongoing struggle for fair workers' rights, highlighting issues such as fair pay, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions. It also fosters international unity amongst workers, thus serving a dual purpose of historical observance and reminder of labor rights advocacy.

The establishment of May Day has its roots in the Labor Union movement of the late 19th century, primarily in the United States and Europe. The Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, which saw laborers demanding an 8-hour workday, is often linked with the origins of May Day. In India, the first May Day observance took place in Chennai (then Madras) in 1923, initiated by the Labour Kisan Party. Important to note, in India, May Day has also been associated with the resistance against colonial rule, making it a symbol of both labor rights and national independence.

In India, May Day is observed annually on May 1st and is recognized as a public holiday. Rallies and marches are organized by trade unions and labor rights activists across the country to raise awareness and advocate for workers' rights and welfare. Workers from various sectors participate in these demonstrations, making visible their collective force. Some organizations also conduct awareness campaigns about legally mandated worker benefits like social security and minimum wages. With its roots in both national history and international labor rights, May Day serves as a reminder for workers in India to continue advocating for their rights and fair treatment.