The origins of Workers Day
Since 01 May 1886, May Day has been celebrated every year on 1 May.
Workers Day is commemorated every year on 1 May. Some call it May Day. Labour unions are at the forefront of observing the day, championing labour’s rights.
What do we really know about this day and how did it came about? According to South African History Online (SAHO) the Federation of Organized Trades and Labour Unions in the United Stated of America and Canada resolved on 7 October 1884 that eight hours should constitute a legal day’s labour and this was in effect from 01 May 1886.
The Federation also recommended to workers organisations under their jurisdiction that they abide by this resolution by the said date. Since then May Day has been celebrated every year on 1 May,” according to SAHO.
In South Africa, the first recorded celebration of May Day was in 1895. It was organised by the Johannesburg District Trades Council and has been observed in South Africa ever since.
“The majority of South African workers had unilaterally declared the day a public holiday and stayed away from work. Premier Foods became the first large employer to declare 1 May and 16 June as paid holidays. Many other companies followed suit,” SAHO said on the website.
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