By Rita R. Robison
On May Day, when we were kids, we used to make wildflower bouquets with cone-shaped, construction paper holders. We’d place them on door steps, knock on the door, then run.
I also remember some maypoles that were done at school or by other organizations.
In many countries, May Day is a day to celebrate workers and workers rights. This holiday has its origins in the struggle by American workers to win the eight-hour work day in the 1880s.
When I worked for state government, I belonged to a union. I participated in its activities, including rallies. The union helped me when I had problems as an injured worker.
I believe workers need to unite and take action to improve working conditions.
Conditions for American workers and workers through the world have declined significantly since the Great Recession of 2008. While the economic fortunes of many companies are improving, the situation for workers remains bleak.
Younger and older workers are having great difficulty finding jobs. Benefits are being slashed for most workers, including government workers, teachers, fire fighters, and police officers.
Economies in Europe are teetering on the edge of economic collapse. The Chinese economy is cooling down, while economic growth in the United States continues slowly.
The situation for workers is dire. Poverty rates are increasing, while the richest few are making even more money.
Today, many rallies are being organized by Occupy Movements throughout the U. S. Some events are peaceful. In others, police are using various kinds of force to stop the demonstrators.
For details on May Day celebrations, see The Huffington Post’s “May Day: How the International Day of Protest Is Celebrated Throughout the World.”
