With the exception of a small number of countries, America included, Labor Day or Workers’ Day is a holiday celebrated on May 1st of each year, dedicated to the struggles and success of working class people.
In Colombia, this day is called El Dia Del Trabajo. Walk down the usually busy streets of Bogota on this day, and you’ll find them deserted! Like in America, on our Labor Day, held in September to mark the end of summer, almost all businesses, post offices, banks, and stores are closed. Instead of working, people protest and parade across the country in solidarity with the working class.
On el Dia Del Trabajo in Colombia, workers from all industries make it a point to stick together and peacefully demand rights for the working class. Traditionally, they dress up in bright red, which stems from the holiday’s socialist origins. El Dia Del Trabajo isn’t only celebrated in Colombia, actually, notable celebrations happen all over the world.
There aren’t many celebrations in America, since our Labor Day is September. However, the origins of Dia Del Trabajo are a great history lesson to teach children. While it is a very somber topic, there are many great themes you can focus on: Human Rights, Equality and Fairness, Solidarity, and Tradition.
