International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day in some countries and often referred to as May Day, is a celebration of labourers and the working classes that is promoted by the international labour movement and occurs every year on May Day (1 May).
The day that is devoted entirely to the labour class. It is celebrated on different days in many countries. But, most countries, observed it on May 1.
International Labour Day 2023
Labour Day or International Workers’ Day is observed each year on May 1 to celebrate the achievements of the working class. The day, also called May Day, is also observed as a public holiday in many countries. It came into prominence in India in 1923.
| Official name | International Workers’ Day |
| Also called | May Day |
| Celebrations | Various, depending on the country; mostly parades, marches, barbecues |
| Date | 1 May |
| Next time | 1 May 2024 |
| Frequency | Annual |
International Labour Day: History
In US, a union of workers had announced a general strike in 1886 for an 8-hour workday instead of a 16-hour workday. To control the crowd, the policemen started shelling and many workers were killed and a few were injured.
An overseas movement started after this incident and it wasn’t until 1916 that the United States began to recognise eight-hour workdays.
International Labour Day in India
The first May Day celebration in India was organised in Madras (now Chennai) by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan on May 1, 1923
Labour Day is celebrated throughout India under a variety of titles, including ‘Kamgar din’ or ‘Antarrashtriya Shramik Diwas’ in Hindi, ‘Uzhaopalar Naal’ in Tamil and ‘Kamgar Diwas’ in Marathi.
It should be noted that May 1 is also celebrated as ‘Maharashtra Day’ and ‘Gujarat Day’ to mark the date in 1960 when the two western states attained statehood after the erstwhile Bombay State was divided into linguistic lines.
Significance
May Day celebrates the contribution and sacrifice of workers to and for society. May Day is synonymous with workers’ struggles and subsequent empowerment in the late 19th century.
The day’s importance dates back to the times when workers in the United States started protesting against draconian labour laws, workers’ rights violations, poor working conditions, and dreadful work hours.
Events and programmes
On this day, competitions are held for students to help them understand the need for equality in the workplace.
Various events and programmes are held by the International Labour Organization to commemorate the day.
FAQs International Workers Day
Like in most countries, on May Day, public and government offices, schools, and colleges remain closed. But in India there is no public holiday
It is celebrated on different days in many countries. But, most countries, observed it on May 1.