Eight Hours Day
March 10, Monday
History of the holiday
This day has its roots in the labor movement that began in the 1850s. Workers started fighting for better working conditions, including the reduction of working hours. One of the main slogans was: "Eight hours of work, eight hours of rest, eight hours for what you want." This slogan symbolized the workers' desire for fairer working conditions.
In 1856, a major march supporting the eight-hour workday took place in Melbourne, which is considered the beginning of the holiday. Shortly after, in 1857, the state of Victoria (Australia) became the first place to implement the eight-hour workday.
Why is this day important?
The Eight Hours Day is celebrated to remember the workers' fight for their rights, the improvement of working conditions, and the establishment of fair working hours. This day symbolizes the achievements of the labor movement and the importance of protecting workers' rights.
How is this day celebrated?
- On this day, various events, such as rallies and parades, dedicated to workers' rights, are often organized.
- In some regions, educational activities are held to tell the story of the labor movement.
- Cultural events, including concerts and exhibitions, related to workers' rights and the history of the fight for working hours, are also organized.
The Eight Hours Day reminds us of how far the fight for workers' rights has come and how important it is to protect those rights today.