Hello, Middle School Friends! Labor Day, also known as May Day, is an annual celebration that is used as a moment to celebrate the economic and social success of workers in various countries. May 1 has become a symbol of working class struggle throughout the world, but few know its history. Come on, check out the following article!
Working Class Struggle
Labor Day was born from the tireless struggle of the working class to achieve their rights amidst the changes of industrial capitalism. In the early 19th century, in Western Europe and the United States, poor working conditions, high intensity working hours, and minimal wages sparked resistance from workers.
In 1806, the first strike in the United States by Cordwainers marked the beginning of the struggle to reduce working hours. This struggle continued, driven by figures such as Peter McGuire and Matthew Maguire, who led strikes and spoke on behalf of workers for demands for more humane working hours.
Parade and Match
In 1882, McGuire led New York’s first Labor Day parade, demanding an eight-hour work day. This parade became the inspiration for similar movements across the state. Oregon became the first state to recognize Labor Day as a public holiday in 1887.
An important event occurred on May 1, 1886, when 400,000 workers in the United States held a demonstration to demand an eight-hour working day. The tragic events in Haymarket Square, Chicago, where demonstrators were shot at by police, are a profound reminder of workers’ struggles. On that day, hundreds of workers were killed, and movement leaders were executed, making them martyrs for the workers’ struggle.
International Celebration
In 1889, the World Socialist Congress decided to observe Labor Day internationally on May 1. This resolution sparked May Day celebrations around the world, where workers united in demands for fairer working hours and other rights.
In Indonesia, the commemoration of Labor Day began in 1920. However, during the New Order government, the commemoration of Labor Day was associated with the communist movement and was removed as a national holiday. However, after the fall of the regime, May Day commemorations became popular again in Indonesia as a form of worker solidarity.
Labor Day is not only about remembering past struggles, but also about strengthening solidarity among workers and continuing to fight for their rights. Even though challenges still exist, the May Day celebration is a momentum to strengthen awareness of the importance of workers’ rights in society.
While we may not celebrate World Labor Day in the same way as previous generations, it is important to appreciate its meaning. May 1 is a moment to commemorate workers’ past struggles, explore issues that are still relevant today, and inspire positive action in the future. By understanding and appreciating this struggle, middle school friends as teenagers have the opportunity to play a role in building a more just and equitable world for everyone. Happy World Labor Day!
Author: SMP Directorate Web Manager
Source:
https://formadiksi.um.ac.id/sejarah-hari-buruh-sedunia-may-day/