April has been filled with so many public holidays and us saying, "It's not just a day off," because truly, IT ISN'T! And let’s be honest, when a public holiday lands mid-week or gives us a long weekend, most of us are like, “Yaasss, sleep in!” And we love that for us. But Workers' Day? It’s so much deeper than just a break from the grind.
1 May is a day with a serious backstory, especially here in South Africa. So, grab your iced coffee, sit back, and let’s unpack why this day matters.
A Quick History Lesson
Workers’ Day, also known internationally as International Workers’ Day, actually has its roots in the late 1800s in the U.S (wild, right?). Workers were basically being overworked, underpaid, and treated like machines. So they fought back for an 8-hour workday, fair pay, and basic human rights. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t easy. People lost their jobs, some lost their lives, but they sparked a global movement.
Fast forward to South Africa: Our version of Workers’ Day comes with its own story, shaped by years of apartheid, inequality, and the exploitation of workers, especially Black workers who were paid less, treated worse, and denied basic rights.
Workers’ Day became a public holiday in 1994 (yep, the same year we held our first democratic elections). It was a powerful way to recognize the role of workers in the fight for freedom.
Trade unions played a HUGE part in fighting apartheid. They weren’t just about better working hours - they were resisting an entire system. Workers’ Day is a reminder that without the labour of everyday people, South Africa would not be where it is today. Period. 💅🏽
But What Does It Mean Today?
Here’s the real tea: We might not be marching in the streets like the OGs did, but that doesn’t mean Worker’s Day has lost its meaning.
Today, it's a chance to reflect on:
The rights workers have now (thank you, unions).
The rights workers are still fighting for (like fair wages, safe working conditions, and equal pay).
And the massive role young people play in shaping the future of work.
From corporate girlies to freelancers, creators, side hustlers, retail workers, domestic workers, teachers, delivery drivers, and more, we all make the economy move. Workers' Day is about honouring that.
How to Honour Workers’ Day in 2025 (Besides Sleeping In)
Show love to essential workers who keep things running.
Learn about labour rights (yes, even if you're working remotely in your sweats).
Use your platform to raise awareness (even if it means sharing this blog post).
Support local businesses, side hustlers, and creatives.
And don’t feel guilty for resting. What will you pour from an empty cup? 🙄 Exactly!
Final Word, From One Hard-Working Baddie to Another
Workers’ Day isn’t just about the past - it’s about the present and the future we want to build. One where jobs aren’t soul-crushing, where people are paid fairly, where hustle culture doesn’t burn us out, and where every worker, from CEOs to cashiers, gets the dignity they deserve.
So yeah, take that day off. Enjoy your soft life moment. But remember the fight that gave us this freedom - and the work we still need to do to make it real for everyone.
