“Labor was the first price, the original purchase money that was paid for all things. It was not by gold or by silver, but by labor, that all wealth of the world was originally purchased.” – Adam Smith
These lines from the renowned economist Adam Smith signified the value of labour in society, and International Labour Day, or May Day, is a testament to the struggles and sacrifices of labourers. This movement started in the USA in the 19th century, demanding an eight-hour workday, and since then, it has been celebrating on 1 May. Today, in this blog, we will delve more deeply into the history of International Labour Day.
International Labour Day History
The history of International Labour Day date back to the 19th century, when labour unions went on strike against the American government, demanding eight hours of work and good working conditions. Let’s delve into its timeline:
1st May, 1886
It was a day when everything started. On May 1 1886, the Labour Union led by Matthew Maguire went against the government, demanding eight hours daily.
4th May, 1886
In was on this day, the labour union strike witnessed a bomb blast, leading to the death of many civilians along with police officers. However, this strike didn’t significantly impact the labourers’ work except to provide them with an 8-hour work day.
1889
As per Raymond Lavigne’s proposal, May Day was decided to be celebrated annually in a meeting in Paris to celebrate the anniversary of the Chicago protest.
1891
Later In 1891, the International’s 2nd Congress officially recognized celebrating May Day as an annual event.
What Is The Significance of International Labour Day?
International Labour Day serves as a reminder of all the hard work and sacrifice of the working class, who constantly provide their service, build the infrastructure, and serve society. May Day also serves as the fight against social inequality and enables the workers to raise their voices and convey their concerns to the policymakers and the government.
Activities For International Labour Day 2024
Fun and educational activities are the best way to keep your kid busy and engaged:
Community Helper Charades
On International Labour Day, gather your family and prepare to play a community helper role-playing game. Let your kids use their imaginations to play the roles of plumbers, doctors, etc., this exercise not only sparks their curiosity for the different roles workers play in society but will also broaden their understanding of different roles.
Workforce Memory Game
Want to improve your kid’s memory power? Then, it’s time to play the workforce memory game.
To play this game, create a memory game using cards featuring pictures of different community helpers or their tools. Mix up the cards and, after laying them face down, encourage your child to flip over two cards at a time to find matching pairs. This game will improve memory skills and help children recognize and appreciate the roles of different workers.
Labour Day Scavenger Hunt
One of the best Labor Day activities for kindergarteners is planning a thrilling scavenger hunt in your neighbourhood with clues related to community helpers. You can use small pictures representing different professions and hide them afterwards; give your children a list of clues to find them. This activity will develop problem-solving skills, observation, and critical thinking as they start their scavenger hunt.
Worker Relay Race
Want to have fun with your family? Get your whole family involved in an exciting worker relay race. Divide yourself into teams and assign each member a different profession. You can use your imagination to set up stations that represent various tasks related to their roles, such as those of a gardener or a school teacher. This game not only promotes teamwork, coordination, and physical activity but also gives your children a taste of different professions.
Also, read The Fascinating History of Singapore
International Labour Day Quotes
Here are the top 7 International Labour Day quotes for you:
“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” — Michael Jordan
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” — Dale Carnegie
“The supreme accomplishment is to blur the lines between work and play.” —Arnold J. Toynbee
“Labour is the fabled magician’s wand, the philosopher’s stone, and the cap of good fortune.” – James Weldon Johnson
“Without hard work, nothing grows but weeds.” — Gordon B. Hinckley
“Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses.” — Kobe Bryant
“Dedication, hard work all the time, and belief.” — Cristiano Ronaldo
Wrapping It Up
Acknowledging the hard work done by workers to elevate people’s standard of living is important. International Labour Day marks the importance of doing the same and is also a testament to raising the voice against exploitation. International Labour Day 2024 will be celebrated on May 1 with the theme “Social Justice and Decent Work for All.”
FAQs
When was the first labour day celebrated in India?
On May 1, 1923, in Chennai, the first labour day in India was celebrated. The Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan organized it.
Who declared International Labour Day?
International Federation of Trade Unions and socialist groups declared International Labour Day to pay respect to the Haymarket Riot in Chicago.
Who is the father of Labor Day?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Peter McGuire is considered the father of Labor Day. However, recent evidence suggests that the true father of Labor Day may be the famous 19th-century union leader Matthew Maguire.
