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Express Tribune
01-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Celebrating labour, backbone of the nation
Listen to article On May 1st, 2025, as the country marked Labour Day, a national holiday meant to honour the contributions of workers, the 1,320 MW Sahiwal Coal Power Plant stood in quiet defiance of the pause. While offices closed and families gathered to celebrate, the plant remained fully operational, continuing its critical role in supplying uninterrupted electricity to Pakistan's national grid, said a press release on Thursday. Labour Day, globally observed on May 1st, originated from the labour union movement in the late 19th century, with roots in the Haymarket affair of 1886 in Chicago, where workers demanded an eight-hour workday. In Pakistan, the day became an official public holiday in 1972 as part of broader labour reforms. It was intended not just to provide rest but also to remind the nation of the value and dignity of its workforce. But for the men of Sahiwal Power Plant, the spirit of the day lives not in rest, but in continued service. This coal-fired power plant, located in the heart of Punjab and jointly developed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a joint effort between China and Pakistan. Its reliability depends on the ceaseless efforts of a dedicated group of men, Pakistani and Chinese engineers, technicians, operators, and labourers who run the plant around the clock in two to three shifts, every single day of the year. Their silent dedication makes it possible for millions of homes and industries to function, even when the rest of the nation takes a break. In the early hours of May 1st, leadership from the Sahiwal Power Plant made their way across different areas of the facility and praised labourers' unwavering commitment, particularly acknowledging the challenges of being away from families on days that are otherwise dedicated to rest and reunion. Beyond its technical contributions, the Sahiwal plant stands as a living example of international friendship and cooperation. While many mark Labour Day with rallies, speeches, and declarations of solidarity, the workers at Sahiwal continue their duty with quiet pride. They may not appear on television screens or in headline news, but their contribution is no less heroic. The electricity they produce keeps hospitals running, powers homes and schools, and sustains factories and businesses across Pakistan. This spirit of partnership is evident in every control room, turbine hall, and monitoring station of the plant. The camaraderie between the two nations' engineers and workers transcends language and borders. These men are not just workers; they are the guardians of Pakistan's energy stability. As the sun set on May 1st, lights across Pakistan continued to shine brightly, thanks to the unwavering efforts of those who stayed at their posts. To the men of the Sahiwal Coal Power Plant, your nation salutes you. You are the backbone of progress. Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi chaired a meeting to review the ongoing and future development projects under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of 31 ongoing development projects and discussed the roadmap for future initiatives. Federal Minister emphasised that all projects must aim to directly uplift the lives of common citizens, especially in backwards and underserved regions, bringing them on par with developed areas. The Minister underscored the importance of inclusive scientific progress, calling for increased efforts to promote scientific education and innovation across the country. He urged organisations to focus not just on infrastructure but also on building human capital through awareness and access to quality education. Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, in a statement, stated that "workers' welfare is indispensable for a prosperous and strong Pakistan." Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan stressed that the dignity of labour is the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation. Our workers — whether in industry, agriculture, trade, or services — are the true drivers of national development.
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
What is May Day? Seattle's complicated history with the event
May Day, celebrated on May 1, is known as a day for marches and rallies across the region— particularly surrounding workers' rights. History of May Day – International Workers Day May Day commemorates the struggle and the lives lost during the fight to ensure the traditional workday we are now accustomed to. It all began in the 1880s. According to the American Postal Workers Union, industrial workers were tired of long hours and harsh conditions. The organization now known as the American Federation of Labor coordinated a nationwide strike for May 1, 1886— for workers to demand the 8-hour workday. In Chicago, anarchists and labor activists began a multi-day strike, which later became known as the Haymarket affair of 1886, according to The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. By the third day, things turned violent—with numerous protesters and police officers dying. On May 1, 1886, NPR reports that more than 340,000 workers took part in national actions in support of an eight-hour day. To honor the Chicago workers, Time reports that the International Socialist Conference in 1889 named May Day a labor holiday, creating what many now call International Workers' Day. May Day Turmoil in Seattle Protests in Seattle on May Day haven't always gone smoothly. For four consecutive years, starting in 2012, anarchists and anti-capitalists dressed in black clashed with police. 2012 Protesters flooded downtown streets, some shattering windows, firing paintballs, setting fires, and blocking traffic. Many businesses went into lockdown as a result. KIRO 7's cameras captured much of the turmoil. The mayor at the time, Mike McGinn, issued an order that allowed police to confiscate items that could be used as weapons, such as large dowels, handles for signs, ball peen hammers and tire irons. Several people were arrested. 2013 With the exception of a few minor scuffles, Seattle Police said the May Day March itself 'went off without a hitch.' However, two hours after it ended, officers said another group of demonstrators smashed windows and hurled rocks at them. Protesters ignited smoke bombs and threw fireworks at people, and officers eventually began loading many of them into transport vans. Eight officers were hurt – mostly bumps and bruises, but one officer was hit in the knee by a 'fist-sized' rock. A woman driving by the commotion was also hurt. Officers said someone threw a glass bottle at her car and shattered her window. About 17 people were arrested for offenses such as property destruction and assault. 2014 The Seattle Police Department said an afternoon rally, organized by El Comite, was peaceful. However, a second unpermitted group began causing problems. Police said the group hurled bottles, bricks and firecrackers at them and lit several dumpsters on fire. In total, ten people were arrested – including one man for assaulting an officer. 2015 Two peaceful demonstrations took place before things took a turn in the city. One permitted by El Comite – the other unplanned. Mid-afternoon, officers spotted a crowd of about 75 people wearing masks near the Federal Courthouse, and that's where things took a turn. In total, three police officers were hospitalized, and five others were hurt during the events of May Day in 2015. Sixteen people were arrested—many carrying knives, hammers, and other types of weapons. The violence and arrests were a result, according to police, largely because of an unpermitted march on Capitol Hill, which grew into a 'full-scale riot.' Video showed people breaking windows of buildings, lighting the American flag on fire and hitting officers with sticks. The Seattle Police Department said it spent about $288,000 in overtime for the event. 2016 A man threw unlit gasoline-filled beer bottles at Seattle police. One officer suffered leg burns after a flash-bang grenade ignited gasoline from a bottle that shattered at his feet. The police department said that in total, five officers were hurt. Seattle police used pepper spray to disperse black-clad anti-capitalist protesters. Officers said the group threw rocks, flares, bricks, and Molotov cocktails at them. At least nine people were arrested. The violence came after a peaceful protest that happened earlier in the day – similar to years past. 2017 Rioters were arrested in Olympia after protests turned violent. A confrontation between protestors and onlookers escalated, which led to 9 arrests. 2018 Hundreds gathered and marched in a mostly peaceful demonstration in Seattle. Only one arrest was made after a masked man threw a rock at the Amazon Spheres.
News18
01-05-2025
- Business
- News18
International Labour Day 2025: Is May 1 A Holiday In India?
Last Updated: International Labour Day provides a platform to raise awareness about current labour issues like safe working conditions, fair wages, and workers' rights. International Labour Day 2025: May 1 is observed as International Labour Day worldwide. Also known as May Day, it commemorates the contributions of the working class. The day also serves as a platform to educate workers and labourers about their rights. International Labour Day is also marked as a holiday in some countries. Many people might not be aware of the significance of this day and how it came into existence. Here is everything you need to know about the history, significance of International Labour Day. International Labour Day 2025: Is May 1 A Holiday In India? On May 1, 2025, several important services across India will be closed in observance of Labour Day. It includes banks, schools, the stock market and government offices. Banks will remain shut in Hyderabad, Belapur, Bengaluru, Chennai, Guwahati, Imphal, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Panaji, Patna, and Thiruvananthapuram. Several schools and government offices observe a holiday on Labour Day. Public transport and postal services are also expected to remain closed depending on the region. International Labour Day 2025: History The origins of International Labour Day can be traced back to the 19th-century labour union movement in the United States. During industrialisation, the working class was exploited in the country. Labourers were made to work for up to 15 hours a day. This led them to raise their voices against exploitation. On May 1, 1886, the Marxist International Socialist Congress passed a resolution calling for a large peaceful strike at the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, demanding paid leave, proper wages and a daily limit of eight working hours. What began as a peaceful protest turned violent when bombs were thrown at the police, leading to the deaths of seven officers and at least four civilians. The incident became a symbol of the workers' rights struggle and was instrumental in establishing May 1 as a day of international solidarity. By the late 19th century, a legal working time of eight hours was announced in Chicago's national convention by the American Federation of Labour. After this announcement, many countries, including India, adopted the eight-hour working policy. International Labour Day 2025: Significance International Labour Day is a day to commemorate and recognise the contributions of workers in infrastructure development and providing basic services to society. It also serves as a reminder of the achievements of the labour movement. Moreover, this day provides a platform to raise awareness about current labour issues like fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers' rights and urge policymakers and politicians to fight for social fairness. International Labour Day 2025: Facts Despite the fact that International Labour Day traces its origin to the celebration of the Haymarket affair in Chicago, this day is actually celebrated on the first Monday in September and not May 1 in Canada and the US. In India, the first May Day was celebrated in Chennai in 1923 by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. Labour Day is known as Kamgar Din in Hindi, Thozhilali Dinam in Malayalam, Karmika Dinotsavam in Telugu, Karmikara Dinacharane in Kannada, Uzhaipalar Dhinam in Tamil, Kamgar Divas in Marathi, and Shromik Dibosh in Bengali. Over 80 countries, including India, Cuba and China, mark International Labour Day. A Labour Day parade is still held in New York City, which takes place throughout the 20 blocks north of the 1882 Labour March. On May 1, Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day are also commemorated to celebrate the foundation of these two states in 1960. Canada is said to have started the observance of a day honouring the labour movement. In 1872, they held a 'Nine-Hour Movement' to show support for striking workers. Oregon was the first state to celebrate Labour Day as a legal holiday in 1887. International Labour Day 2025: Celebrations India observes International Labour Day on May 1. It is a national holiday celebrated with rallies and speeches emphasising workers' rights and the contributions of the Indian labour movement. It is worth noting that celebrations differ per country. Parades, speeches, rallies, and cultural events are all common traditions. Some countries observe the day off as a national holiday. International Labour Day 2025: Quotes 'All labour that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence." – Martin Luther King Jr 'No human masterpiece has been created without great labour." – Andre Gide 'Without labour, nothing prospers." – Sophocles 'The dignity of labour depends not on what you do, but how you do it." – Edwin Osgood 'Our labour preserves us from three great evils — weariness, vice, and want." – Voltaire 'Rest when you're weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, and your spirit. Then get back to work." – Ralph Marston 'Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." – Confucius 'It is labour indeed that puts the difference on everything." – John Locke 'Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don't let anyone limit your dreams." – Donovan Bailey 'Work isn't to make money; you work to justify life." – Marc Chagall International Labour Day Wishes Happy Labour Day. Thank you to all the workers who make our lives better. Today is the day to honour those souls who are striving hard in life to make it worthwhile. Happy Labour Day to everyone! On the occasion of Labour Day, I wish all workers to be recognised and appreciated for their hard work and contributions to the development of society. It is important to honour and celebrate the hard work and dedication of individuals in every field. Wishing you all a very happy Labour Day. Wishing all of the society's honourable labourers a happy May Day. They deserve to be well-treated not just today, but every day of the year! To all the hard-working people out there. Happy Labour Day! Keep up the good work. Workers are a nation's invisible backbone, as it is only because of them that the nation can stand strong. Everyone, have a happy May Day! I wish you a wonderful May Day. Take some time to unwind so you can return to work with renewed vigour. We would like to express our gratitude and respect to all workers. Labour Day greetings! A single machine can perform the tasks of fifty ordinary individuals. No computer can do the labour of a single exceptional individual. Happy International Workers' Day! Here's to the driving force behind progress. Labour Day: a moment to honour and celebrate the hearts and souls poured into work. Today, we celebrate their impact. Take a break and revel in the joy! Happy Labour Day! The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : International Labour Day lifestyle Location : Mumbai, India, India First Published: May 01, 2025, 08:30 IST News lifestyle International Labour Day 2025: Is May 1 A Holiday In India?
Time of India
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
International Labour Day 2025: Wishes, quotes and images to celebrate workers' rights on May 1
Every year on May 1, people across the globe observe International Labour Day—also known as International Workers' Day—to honour the contributions of workers and commemorate their long-standing struggles for fair treatment, better wages, and safer working conditions. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack A Chinese shadow falls on Pahalgam terror attack case probe How India can use water to pressure Pakistan Buzzkill: How India can dissolve the Pakistan problem, not just swat it It's a day to acknowledge the backbone of every economy: its labour force. Why is Labour Day celebrated on May 1? Labour Day traces its origins to the late 19th-century labour movement in the United States, particularly the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers rallied for an eight-hour workday. The peaceful protest turned tragic when a bomb exploded during the demonstration, killing several police officers and civilians. To honour those who fought for workers' rights, May 1 was chosen by international labour unions as a symbolic date. Since then, it has been recognized globally as a day of solidarity, advocacy, and appreciation for labourers in all sectors. The significance of International Labour Day Labour Day is more than just a holiday—it's a reminder that the rights many enjoy today were earned through protest, sacrifice, and resilience. From minimum wage laws to workplace safety, many of the protections in place now stem from the labour movements of the past. Live Events In 2025, as industries evolve and challenges like automation, wage disparity, and job security persist, Labour Day serves as a call to continue protecting workers' rights and ensuring fair and dignified work for all. Labour Day 2025: Wishes and messages to share Here are some heartfelt wishes and WhatsApp messages to send to your colleagues, friends, and loved ones on May 1: 'Happy Labour Day! Your dedication and hard work shape the world—today, we honour you.' 'Let us remember those who fought for the rights we enjoy today. Wishing you a meaningful Labour Day.' 'May your efforts always be respected and your work always be rewarded. Happy May Day!' 'To all the workers out there—thank you for building, growing, and powering our communities.' 'No labour is small. Every effort counts. Today, we salute the strength of workers everywhere.' Inspirational quotes to mark the day 'All labour that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.' — Martin Luther King Jr. 'Work is not man's punishment. It is his reward and his strength and his pleasure.' — George Sand 'The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.' — John F. Kennedy 'Without labour, nothing prospers.' — Sophocles Images to share this Labour Day Agencies Labour Day Agencies Agencies Agencies
