- Every year, 1st May is observed as International Labour Day /Workers Day, or May Day, in many countries of the world, including India.
- The day is observed to mark the contribution of the working people and the labour movement that fought for the rights of the working class.
- The genesis of International Labour Day is traced to a strike by the labour union in the American industrial city of Chicago on 1 May 1886. The workers were demanding eight hours working day and other amenities for the labour class.
- During a demonstration by the workers at Chicago’s Haymarket on 4 May 1886, there was a bomb explosion, which led to police firing, resulting in the death of a few civilians. This event became famous as the Haymarket incident, and it became a rallying cry of the workers and trade unions.
- Inspired by the Haymarket event, socialist and labour leaders founded Second International to further the cause of the workers and fight for their rights.
- At the Second International Meeting in Paris in 1889, leaders of around twenty countries decided to observe 1 May as International Labour Day.
Theme of the International Labour Day 2024
- The theme of International Labour Day 2024 is to ensure workplace safety and health amidst climate change.