Labour Day, also known as International Workers' Day or May Day, is a day dedicated to celebrating the contributions of workers and the Labour movement. It is observed in many countries around the world on different days. The day has its origins in the Labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour workday movement, which advocated for better working conditions, fair wages, and other Labour rights.

Table of Contents

1. When is Labour Day?
2. The History of Labour Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. What was the Haymarket Affair?

When is Labour Day (USA)?

While Labour Day is celebrated on May 1 in many countries, the first Monday in September was chosen in the United States as a way to disassociate it from the radical associations of the Haymarket affair, which took place on May 1st, 1886.

The following is the list of Labour Day in the United States.

The History of Labour Day (USA)?

The history of Labour Day can be traced back to the labour union movement of the 19th century, particularly the struggle for better working conditions, fair wages, and the demand for an eight-hour workday. The movement gained momentum in the United States and other industrialized countries, where workers faced long hours, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate pay.

One of the pivotal events in the history of Labour Day was the Haymarket Affair in Chicago in 1886, a peaceful rally supporting workers striking for an eight-hour day that turned violent. Following the events in the U.S., Labour Day was adopted by various countries worldwide as a day to celebrate the achievements and contributions of the working class. It became associated with the broader struggle for workers' rights and social justice.

In many countries, Labour Day is celebrated on May 1st and is known as May Day. This date was chosen to commemorate the Haymarket Affair. May Day has since become a significant date for demonstrations and protests by various labour and socialist groups.

In the United States, Labour Day was designated as a federal holiday in 1894, and it is observed on the first Monday in September, which is considered the unofficial end of summer, also a way to disassociate it from the radical associations of May 1st.

What Do People Do on This Day?

Celebrating Labour Day in the United States typically involves a mix of leisure activities, community events, and recognition of the contributions of workers. Here are five common ways to celebrate:

Community events: Many communities host events that focus on the history and achievements of the labour movement. These might include parades, speeches, rallies, and educational events. Labour unions often organize these gatherings to highlight the importance of workers' rights.

Family gathering: Labour Day is often seen as the unofficial end of summer in the U.S., so many people take the opportunity to have family gatherings. It's a time for relaxation and spending time with loved ones.

Outdoor time: Since LabourDay falls at the beginning of September, it's an ideal time for outdoor activities like picnics, camping trips, beach outings, or hikes. People take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy the outdoors.

Volunteering: Some people choose to mark Labour Day by giving back to their communities through volunteering or participating in community service projects.

Cultural Festivals: Some cities host music and cultural festivals over Labour Day weekend. These events can include concerts, art exhibitions, craft fairs, and food festivals, providing entertainment and celebrating local culture and communities.

What was the Haymarket Affair?

The Haymarket Affair, also known as the Haymarket Riot, was a significant event in the history of labour movements, occurring on May 4, 1886, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. It became a pivotal moment for labour rights across the world and played a key role in the establishment of Labour Day on May 1st.

Workers often faced long hours, low pay, and dangerous working conditions in the late 19th century. Labour  unions were fighting for an eight-hour workday, among other rights. On May 4, 1886, a peaceful rally was held at Haymarket Square in Chicago to support workers striking for an eight-hour day and to protest the killing and wounding of several workers by the police during a strike the previous day.

As the rally was winding down, and after a heavy police presence arrived, an unknown person threw a bomb at the police. The bomb blast and ensuing gunfire resulted in the death of several police officers and civilians. The events that followed were marked by a sensationalized trial. Eight anarchists were arrested and charged with conspiracy connected to the bombing. Despite a lack of direct evidence linking them to the bomb, seven were sentenced to death and one to a long prison term. Four were executed, one committed suicide, and the remaining three were eventually pardoned.

The Haymarket Affair became a symbol of the struggle for workers' rights. It highlighted the growing tensions between labour and capital in the industrializing United States. The affair remains an important historical event, symbolizing the struggle for workers' rights and contributing to the development of labuor movement globally.