May Day

May Day History

May Day, also known as International Workers' Day, pays tribute to workers' rights and labour movements worldwide. An occasion to assert and promote workers' rights, the day is marked by public rallies, demonstrations, and other educational and celebratory events. The core essence of the occasion lies in affirming the dignity of labour and acknowledging the vital contributions of the working class to the socioeconomic fabric of the society.

The history of May Day traces back to the late 19th century, during the peak of the Industrial Revolution, when workers across the United States and Europe protested against inhumane working conditions and extensive work hours. For Canadians, May Day holds a significant meaning as it is associated with the country's labour movement, which has a rich history dating back to the 1820s. The observance represents continual efforts towards fair wages, equitable work hours, and safer working conditions, all of which have greatly influenced the labour laws and employment standards in Canada.

In Canada, while May Day isn't a statutory holiday, several organizations and labour unions arrange processions, rallies, and educational forums to commemorate the day. Some participants wear red carnations, a symbol associated with workers' movements. Various cultural events and exhibits highlighting the history and ongoing struggles of the labour movement also take place. May Day takes place annually on May 1, aligning with the International Workers' Day celebrated worldwide.

Facts about May Day

• May Day is also recognized as International Worker's Day, or Labor Day. This day commemorates workers rights and the labor movement. One popular cause that this day commemorates is the eight-hour workday.
• In France, it is customary to give a sweet smelling flower called the spring of lily of the valley (a symbol of springtime) on May 1st. The tradition started in 1561 when King Charles IX of France received a lily of the valley as a lucky charm.
• Some places like Toronto, have a tradition of a "May Queen", which is a girl that is chosen to lead a parade, who wears white and has a wreath of flowers on her head.
• The day has been more widely recognized in the province of Quebec since 1972, where demonstrations and protests are held annually on this day.

In the News and Trending in Canada for May Day

Top things to do in Canada for May Day

• Dance around a Maypole. Decorate a tall pole with garlands of flowers and ribbons. Have a group of friends each take a ribbon and dance around the pole, interweaving the ribbons to form a braided affect. The braid can be undone by retracing one's steps.
• Have a picnic outdoors in the sunshine.
• Visit the Parliament Hill in Ottawa. On May Day, there is typically a rally and march organized by various labour groups that starts at the Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
• Attend the May Day Parade in Vancouver. The May Day Parade in Vancouver is the largest organized workers' parade in Canada, featuring floats, banners, and costumes.