NEW YORK — May Day, observed worldwide on May 1 as International Workers' Day, stands as a powerful reminder of the labor movement's historic struggles and ongoing fight for workers' rights, drawing millions to rallies, marches and cultural events even as economic pressures and geopolitical tensions shape its 2026 observances.

The holiday, also known as Labour Day in many countries, commemorates the Haymarket Affair in Chicago and honors the contributions and sacrifices of working people across generations. While its roots trace to both ancient spring festivals and 19th-century labor organizing, modern May Day emphasizes solidarity, fair wages and safe working conditions amid rapid technological and economic change.

The modern observance originated in the United States. In 1884, the Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions set May 1, 1886, as the date for a nationwide push for an eight-hour workday. Hundreds of thousands of workers participated in strikes and demonstrations that day. Tensions peaked in Chicago's Haymarket Square on May 4 when a bomb thrown during a rally killed police officers and sparked a riot. Eight anarchists were convicted in a controversial trial, with four ultimately executed. The international labor movement later adopted May 1 to honor the "Haymarket Martyrs" and demand workers' rights.

In 1889, the Second International — a........

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