Why don’t you work on May 1? The historic tribute that gave rise to Labor Day

2024-05-04 01:12:04

¿Why don’t you work? he May 1? We tell you about him historic tribute which gave rise to Labor Day.

This Wednesday, May 1, is an official day of rest in Mexico and other countries around the world, because it commemorates the International Workers’ Day.

During the May 1 Marches, demonstrations and cultural events are held to highlight the importance of labor rights and the achievements obtained by workers throughout history.

Why are these mobilizations carried out? Everything has its origin in a historic tribute to the Chicago Martyrs.

International work day (Courtesy)

May 1, Labor Day: Its origin dates back to the workers’ struggles that fought for an eight-hour workday

The origins of Labor Day They date back to the workers’ struggles of the late 19th century, which fought for better working conditions, especially the eight-hour working day.

At that time, the working day was so long that it reached 16 hours a day in some cases.

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Furthermore, working conditions were very harsh, with low salaries and no type of social protection.

One of the most important events that led to the establishment of May 1 as Labor Day was the workers’ strike in the United States that began on May 1, 1886.

The strike was organized to demand an eight-hour work day, and culminated in a series of demonstrations and riots in Chicago, known as the Haymarket Events.

During one of these demonstrations, a bomb was thrown towards elements of the police forces, which left several police officers and civilians dead.

As a result, several union leaders were arrested, tried and sentenced to death, which generated great indignation among workers around the world.

International Labor Day demonstration in Mexico. (Moises Pablo / Cuartoscuro)

Labor Day: May 1 commemorates the Chicago Martyrs

In 1889, the Second International group, to which various socialist parties and unions from several countries joined, decided to declare May 1 as International Workers’ Day.

That, in memory of the Chicago Martyrs and in solidarity with the workers’ struggle for better working conditions.

Since then, May 1 has become an emblematic date for celebrating the achievements of workers and demanding their rights around the world.

Rally in the Zócalo. Labor Day. (Paulina Negrete/Cuartoscuro)

2024-05-04 01:12:04