140th Anniversary of International Workers’ Day
The 1st of May 2026 marks the 140th anniversary of International Workers’ Day, commemorating the historic labour struggles in Chicago that began in 1886 to secure the eight-hour workday. This milestone is being observed globally through rallies, parades, and reflections on the legacy of the labour movement and the ongoing fight for workers’ rights. The date honours the events of 1 May 1886, when workers in the United States began a massive strike for an eight-hour work day. It has since become a global symbol of the struggle against exploitation and a celebration of the working class’s achievements.
Labor unions and international organisations are using this anniversary to reaffirm the importance of fair labour practices and collective bargaining. Trade unions like the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) have organised rallies across all nine provinces to celebrate the occasion, highlighting both historical victories and current challenges. In various regions, including parts of Asia, parades and cultural events have been held to honour the martyrs and pioneers of the labour movement.
This 140th anniversary serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations to establish the standards and rights that many workers enjoy today. 1 May 2026 is a landmark milestone that bridges over a century of labour history with modern workplace challenges. It marks 140 years since the 1886 Haymarket Af
