Honouring Workers Around the World 📅 1st May
🏭 What is Labour Day?
Labour Day began in the late 19th century as part of the labour union movement, which fought for better working hours, safer conditions, and fair pay. The day is now a symbol of unity and respect for all the people who contribute to society with their daily work.
In some countries like the UK or the USA, Labour Day is celebrated on different dates (for example, the US celebrates it on the first Monday of September). But no matter the day, the message is the same: workers matter.
How is it celebrated? Different countries have their own ways to mark the occasion:
- Parades and marches in cities.
- Public speeches by politicians and union leaders.
- Time off work, as it is a public holiday in many places.
- Cultural events, like concerts or exhibitions about workers’ history.
💬 Exercise: Complete the sentences with the correct word from the box:
🗣️ Discussion Questions
- Do you think all countries should celebrate Labour Day on the same date? Why or why not?
- What professions do you think are undervalued in today’s society?
- Should people earn the same salary for doing different jobs?
- How has technology changed the way we work? Is it for better or worse?
- Would you ever join a workers’ union? Why or why not?
