May 1 is celebrated around the world as International Workers’ Day. The U.S. chose to celebrate Labor Day in September because they wanted to distance the holiday from its more radical roots—but at UDW, we embrace our history!
DID YOU KNOW?
- More than 350,000 workers across the country went on strike on May 1, 1886, to enforce the 8-hour workday, a law that bosses were ignoring.
- The strike culminated in what is now known as the Haymarket Affair, where workers rioted against Chicago police after police killed and injured striking workers the day before.
- May 1, also known as May Day, is celebrated worldwide for its lasting impact on labor movements worldwide.
The early labor movement helped pave the way for the foundation of UDW, as well as nationwide job protections and rights.
Today, we continue in that tradition as we fight for home care and family child care providers, demanding lawmakers see the value and dignity in our work. We may stand on the backs of giants, but we are also writing our own history and paving a new path for labor as we win victory after victory.
We saw it then and we see it now: when workers unite in solidarity, we make history! From higher wages to overtime pay and paid leave, we have seen the life-changing impact our voices have when we work together.
Celebrate Labor History Month and International Workers’ Day by getting involved in our fight for a better workplace for all!
Visit udw.org/get-involved to learn how.
