Beyond Celebrations, What Children Need to Learn About International Labour Day
By Dickson Tumuramye
But while adults may
understand this history, children often grow up seeing it as "just another
day off." As parents or teachers, we have a unique opportunity and
responsibility to teach our children what this day truly means and how it
connects to their everyday lives and future roles in society.
A History Rooted in Struggle and Justice
International Labour Day
originated in the late 19th century as a response to the harsh working
conditions of the industrial age. Workers, including children, toiled for 12–16
hours a day with little pay and no legal protection. The labour movement,
sparked by protests in places like Chicago, fought for basic rights: the 8-hour
workday, fair wages, safe workplaces, and the end of child labour.
Today, many of those
rights are protected by law. But Labour Day is not just about history, it’s a
call to remember, reflect, and keep advocating for dignity in work across all
sectors.
Why Labour Day Still Matters Today
In our modern world, work
has evolved, but challenges remain, especially in developing countries. From
teachers to boda-boda riders, doctors to domestic workers, every job
contributes to our society's well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded us just
how essential all forms of labour truly are.
Yet despite this, many workers continue to face long
hours of work with low pay, a lack of benefits, inequality, and limited respect
for the value of their work, among other issues. Labour Day is a moment to not
only thank them but also to renew our commitment to fairness and equity in the
workplace.
Teaching Children About Labour Day
As parents, teachers, and guardians, it is crucial to impart the
significance of International Labour Day to children from an early age. Here
are essential lessons to teach:
Understanding the Value of Work
Teach children that work is more than just a means of earning money; it
is about contributing to society, developing skills, and achieving personal
fulfillment. Encourage them to respect all forms of work, whether manual labor
or intellectual pursuits, as long as it brings a positive impact to society.
Respect for Workers
Instill in children a deep respect for workers of all backgrounds.
Emphasize that every job, regardless of its nature, deserves dignity and fair
treatment. Discuss with them the importance of treating everyone with kindness
and empathy, regardless of their occupation. This should begin with workers in
our homes.
Advocacy for Fairness
We need to encourage children to advocate for fairness and equality in
their communities. Discuss examples of social justice movements and how
individuals can make a positive impact by standing up for what is right. They should
not bribe their way through or allow themselves to be manipulated to achieve
what they want in life.
Dreaming Big, Working Smart
Labour
Day is also a time to talk about ambition. What do your children want to be
when they grow up? Encourage them to explore their passions while understanding
that success is rooted in discipline, service, and purpose.
Labour Day Starts at Home
Use
this Labour Day to do something meaningful as a family. Write thank-you notes
to some workers who have served them as an appreciation. Have a conversation
about what jobs mean. Share your own work stories, both struggles and joys.
Help your children see that behind every service they enjoy is a human being
who worked to make it happen.
In teaching our children
to respect work, we are preparing them to build a more compassionate and
equitable society, where every worker is valued, and every child grows up
knowing that their contribution, too, will matter.
Role of Unions and Collective Action
Introduce children to the concept of labor unions and collective action.
Explain how workers come together to negotiate better wages, safer working
conditions, and improved benefits. Discuss real-life examples where collective
action has led to positive changes for workers. This does not mean getting
involved in activities that break the law, like riots to fight for our justice.
Celebrating Diversity
Highlight the diversity of labor and the contributions of workers from
various backgrounds and cultures. Celebrate the richness that different
perspectives bring to workplaces and society as a whole, and how we all gain
from each other. Therefore, they should never despise anybody, including the lowest
employee at the workplace.
Conclusion
International Labour Day serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles
and triumphs of workers throughout history. By teaching children about the
importance of labor rights, respect for workers, and the value of fairness,
parents play a vital role in shaping future generations who are informed,
empathetic, and committed to upholding justice and equality in the workplace.
As we commemorate this day, let us renew our commitment to promoting dignity,
rights, and opportunities for all workers worldwide.
In essence, International Labour Day is not just a
celebration but a call to action. Let us
say no to social injustices, corruption, poor governance, and ensure a brighter
and more equitable future for everyone to feel happy in their society.
The
writer is the executive director of Hope Regeneration Africa, a parenting
coach, marriage counselor, and founder – Men of Purpose mentorship program
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