Labour Day on 1 May: Its Complete History

Every 1 May, millions of workers in various countries, including Indonesia, commemorate International Labour Day or May Day. This occasion is not merely an annual tradition but an important symbol of the long struggle of workers to obtain their rights. Before understanding the meaning of Labour Day, it is important to know who is meant by “workers”. Then, what is the story of the birth of Labour Day until it is commemorated globally and becomes a red-letter day in Indonesia? Source: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) International Labour Day or May Day is rooted in the global labour movement at the end of the 19th century. This moment was born from the long struggle of workers to advocate for more humane working conditions. Several important events that formed its background: In 1884, a national federation of trade unions in the United States launched a campaign to establish an eight-hour workday, effective from 1 May 1886. Ahead of that date, thousands of workers in various cities carried out massive strikes, making it one of the largest periods of labour unrest in history. One of the most decisive points occurred in Chicago, when police shot striking workers. This triggered further protests at Haymarket Square. During that action, a bomb exploded, killing one police officer and injuring others. The police then fired on the crowd, resulting in casualties on both sides. Since then, 1 May has become a day of international solidarity. In many countries, including Los Angeles, May Day also unites the labour movement with the defence of immigrants’ rights and other community groups. Quoted from Kompas.com (28/4/2026), the journey of Labour Day in Indonesia is also full of dynamics and a long struggle.