01/05/2025
Do you know why we celebrate Labor Day every May 1? Here’s the story!
In the 1800s, many workers around the world worked for very long hours — sometimes 10 to 16 hours a day, in hard and unsafe conditions. That’s why workers came together to ask for better working conditions, especially the 8-hour workday (just 8 hours of work per day).
On May 1, 1886, many workers in America, especially in Chicago, joined a big strike and march to ask for this 8-hour workday. This is known as the Haymarket Affair. Sadly, a bomb exploded during the rally, and some people were hurt and died.
Because of this event, people around the world remembered how important it is to protect the rights of workers. That’s why May 1 became International Workers' Day, to honor all workers everywhere.
But you know, Labor Day is not just about protests. In the Catholic Church, it is also remember St. Joseph, called St. Joseph the Worker. He was the husband of Mama Mary and the earthly father of Jesus.
St. Joseph was a carpenter — a simple worker who was hardworking, patient, and cared a lot for his family.
In 1955, Pope Pius XII declared that May 1 would also be the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. This is to show that work is important and honorable, and to pray for all workers around the world.
Today, when we celebrate May 1, we remember not only the rights of workers but also that work — even simple work — is valuable and helps our families and community, just like St. Joseph did.
