The Origin
The majority of countries worldwide observe International Workers’ Day (also known as Labour Day or May Day) on May 1st annually. The day serves to honour working people together with their rights to work. International Workers’ Day emerged from the 19th-century labour union movement, which culminated in the Haymarket affair at Chicago in 1886 when employees demanded an eight-hour workday. The protest turned violent, yet the incident exposed the unacceptably harsh workplace conditions that existed at that time. The day of May 1st became a symbol to recognise worker struggles, and it now represents both resistance and solidarity.
Purpose and Importance
The purpose and importance of the day is to celebrate the achievements of the working class and to promote fair wages, safe working environments, reasonable working hours, and social protections. International Workers’ day also brings attention to ongoing labour issues and workers’ rights. International Workers’ Day is a global show of unity, where workers and unions stand together in peaceful demonstration, demanding fair treatment and stronger labour laws. This day continues to shed light on gig economy challenges, job insecurity, automation, climate justice in labour, and the need for sustainable employment.
UNESCO BMW’s Involvement
UNESCO BMW is deeply committed to the preservation of cultural heritage. Recognizing the vital role of historical monuments in shaping societies, UNESCO BMW actively participates in initiatives that promote awareness and conservation efforts. The organization collaborates with cultural institutions, architects, and historians to organize educational campaigns, site visits, and heritage restoration projects. Furthermore, through social media and outreach programs, UNESCO BMW spreads awareness about the significance of protecting cultural heritage in the modern world.
UNESCO BMW’s Vision
UNESCO BMW envisions a world where cultural heritage is preserved and valued as an integral part of human identity. The organisation advocates for sustainable heritage conservation practices, integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches. By fostering a sense of cultural appreciation, it aims to inspire communities to take an active role in protecting their historical sites. Additionally, UNESCO BMW promotes heritage education among young generations, ensuring that future leaders understand the importance of safeguarding the past to build a better future.
By: Seemab Arif
Sources:
- https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Workers%27_Day
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/May-Day-international-observance
- https://www.englishpath.com/blog/international-labour-day-origins-history-and-significance
- https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/general-english/magazine-zone/international-workers-day
- https://www.zinnedproject.org/news/tdih/international-workers