Labour Day: Paying Tribute to the Backbone of the Economy

The tall towers, massive malls and gorgeous amusement parks are not built only through financial investments. It takes a lot more than just money to change the way a place looks, to develop infrastructure or to improve the transportation in a city. While companies invest in these projects, it is the labour force that brings ideas into reality! It is the load of cement bags, heavy metal and countless objects that the head of a worker holds! To honour these souls who transform nations, we observe Labour Day across the globe.

You must be wondering if Labour Day is just a mere observance for a holiday or if it has any history to it. Well, Labour Day is an internationally recognised event to honour workers and their contributions to society. While it is observed on different dates across various countries, the essence of Labour Day remains consistent. It is the day to acknowledge the rights, struggles and achievements of the working class. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fair wages, better working conditions and the rights of labourers. Go ahead to explore the significance of this day to honour your surrounding workers in a great way.

Diving into the History of Labour Day

1. Origins in the Industrial Revolution

Indian history is so much about fighting for freedom, equal opportunities and fair wages. If you go back in time, you can already understand how the British exploited the peasants who worked day and night. Even the roots of Labour Day can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, industries were flourishing as more and more people were exposed to the idea of trading goods. That is when the country also witnessed a surge in factory jobs.

Considering the heavy demand, working conditions were not good for the labourers. They had to work for long hours along with low wages. Did you know some of the factory environments were also unsafe for the workers? Despite all of this, the lack of workers’ rights was a common problem during that time. Even women and children were subjected to working 12 to 16-hour shifts with little to no breaks. Exploitation was clearly evident; labourers had no legal protection against workplace injustices. Due to this, there was a need for reforms. Hence, this led to the rise of labour unions and organised protests.

2. The Haymarket Affair and the Eight-Hour Workday Movement

Be thankful for Labour Day, as you do not have to work for 16 hours without long breaks. Today, you work 9 to 5 because labourers in Chicago left no stone unturned for their rights. One of the most crucial moments in labour history was the Haymarket Affair in Chicago. It was in May 1886 when thousands of workers organised rallies. They started demanding an eight-hour workday instead of the standard 10 to 16-hour shifts. 

It was the 1st of May when a nationwide strike took place. Shockingly, the peaceful protest at Haymarket Square turned violent when an unknown person threw a bomb at the police. This resulted in the loss of lives of many people on the 4th of May. Considering the intensity of the situation, 1st May was later chosen as International Workers’ Day or May Day, to commemorate the struggle for labour rights.

This event was a game changer for labourers across the world. A lot of countries considered labour rights to be a serious issue and modified the working hours. As this movement shocked the world, other countries also started recognising different dates for Labour Day. That is how labourers fought their battle for basic working conditions.

3. Workers’ Movement in India (1923): The Birth of Labour Day

Whether you see the rickshaw drivers fighting for fair wages or the factory workers demanding better working conditions, it is the unity of the working class in India that led to the observance of Labour Day. Let’s go back to 1923, as the year witnessed one of the most notable labour-related events. It was the first Labour Day celebration on 1st May organised by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan in Chennai. 

The Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan was founded by Singaravelu Chettiar. He was a prominent labour activist and a communist leader. He often advocated for the recognition of workers’ rights and better labour laws in the country. There were two major gatherings at Marina Beach and Triplicane Beach. On that day, a red flag was raised in India, symbolising workers’ solidarity. The event emphasised the need for an eight-hour workday and fair wages.

It truly was a turning point for the working class, as it marked the beginning of organised labour activism in colonial India. The day was an inspiration to workers’ movements that contributed to India’s independence. It also helped transform the existing labour reforms. Interestingly, it also influenced the formation of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC). The formation played a major role in labour laws post-independence.

Significance of Labour Day and Celebrations Across the Globe

1. Recognition of Workers’ Contributions

Labour Day serves as a tribute to workers across all industries. No matter if it is the field of agriculture, construction, healthcare, education or technology, workers form the backbone of the economy. Labour Day truly acknowledges their dedication and efforts. It also highlights the importance of fair wages, safety and respect in the workplace. 

2. Promotes Child Education 

Labour Day is primarily a celebration of workers’ rights, but its influence extends beyond labour laws. One of its significant yet often overlooked impacts is on education. Labour Day also commemorates the reduction of child labour, which was significant in the past. The day stands as a reminder to constantly work towards increasing school enrolment for children of the working class.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, many children were forced to work in factories, mines and farms. It prevented them from receiving the much-needed education. Labour Day represents the success of advocating for child labour laws. In today’s time, millions of children are away from working in hazardous conditions for low wages. 

3. Work-Life Balance and Employee Well-Being

Even in today’s time, the challenges remain constant for the working class. They still have to fight for their rights. Hence, Labour Day stands as a reminder of their collective effort, which promotes work-life balance. The struggle for better working conditions includes the right to rest and ensure personal well-being. It makes everyone feel worthy of the rest, no matter their position, standard of living or income.

Labour Day ensures workers are not overburdened and are always taken care of. It also reminds companies as well as factories to consider paid holidays and sick leaves for the physical and mental health of labourers. Many modern organisations now implement policies that prioritise employee well-being, partly due to the awareness raised by labour movements.

4. Parades and Rallies

As you must have read, parades and rallies have played a significant part in introducing the concept of Labour Day to the world. Many countries organise parades, marches and rallies on Labour Day to commemorate the event with joy. You can also attend these events to hear speeches by labour leaders and government officials. Most of these are directed at workers’ rights and suggestions for factory owners to improve the working conditions.

5. Public Holidays and Rest for Workers

Not every country is all set to march on this day. Some also believe that every worker should rest on this day, considering its origin for the health and safety of the working class. Hence, many countries observe it as a public holiday, thereby allowing workers to be at leisure. Schools, offices and selected businesses often remain closed to honour the workforce.

6. Workshops and Seminars 

Governments and organisations use Labour Day as an opportunity to educate workers about their rights. Various workshops, seminars and awareness campaigns are organised for this. Even employees in the corporate setting are informed about workplace harassment policies and occupational health standards. These initiatives help workers understand their legal protections.

7. Educational Initiatives 

In today’s time, schools are progressing as they want students to learn about every small event. Many schools take extraordinary initiatives to help learners understand the contributions of the working class. They generally organise special assemblies, debates and classroom discussions. 

Teachers educate students about historical labour movements, workers’ contributions and fair labour practices. Usage of documentaries and presentations on these topics surely makes it better for students. In this way, educational institutions create generations that not only think but also respect the labour force in the country.

8. Social Media Craze!

No event is complete without you seeing a well-explained video on that. Such is the case of Labour Day too. You get to see people spreading awareness about workers’ rights, labour laws and workplace equality. Even organisations, unions and activists use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to share educational posts. Sometimes, companies may highlight the success stories of workers.

With changing times, even a lot of underprivileged women get jobs in factory outlets led by woman founders. Such stories are often highlighted on Labour Day, thereby inspiring other workplaces on social media too. You can even see hashtags like #LabourDay, #WorkersRights and #RespectWorkers trending globally. Such posts also encourage discussions on labour issues across the globe.

Places to Visit on Labour Day for the Right Amount of Relaxation 

Labour Day falls on the 1st of May, which is a Thursday. As it is a public holiday, you can easily take a holiday on Friday and plan a 4-day getaway with your loved ones. Check out the places below for the most pleasant trip.

1. Manali

With the best and most affordable hotels in Manali, enjoying the cool climate is the best thing to do. You can easily take a flight to Kullu and then a bus or taxi to the hill station. You get the opportunity to enjoy delicious street food in Manali, shopping areas and unique trekking trails.

2. Ooty

You can beat the scorching heat of summer right when you visit Ooty for the Labour Day weekend. Located in the heart of Tamil Nadu, this hill station offers lush green parks, lakes and verdant landscapes. The peaceful retreat also has some of the most spectacular tea gardens in India. You can easily book affordable hotels in Ooty for a wonderful time.

3. Mussoorie 

The scenic beauty of Uttarakhand can be witnessed right at Mussoorie. This Labour Day, you can visit the place for a refreshing time. You can visit multiple viewpoints, gorgeous waterfalls and buzzing shopping markets. What’s more? The hill station also offers adventure activities including trekking, paragliding and ziplining. It is best to book pocket-friendly hotels in Mussoorie for a comfortable time.

Honouring Labour Day in the Right Way!

Labour Day is more than just a holiday! It is a tribute to the struggles and achievements of workers worldwide. It also serves as a call to action – to support ethical labour practices, educate workers and take time out to rejuvenate. On this Labour Day, treat yourself to mesmerising views of mountains, valleys or waterfalls. The availability of Treebo hotels by Treebo Club at multiple locations makes it easy to plan the much-needed rest.