Origin & history
Labour Day in Colombia traces its origins to the international labor movement and the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886. In Colombia, the first May Day celebrations occurred in the early 20th century, driven by emerging trade unions and socialist groups demanding better working conditions, such as the eight-hour workday. The date was officially recognized as a public holiday in 1919 under the presidency of Marco Fidel Suárez, following pressure from organized labor. Over the decades, it became a key date for workers to assert their rights, especially during periods of social unrest and political change.
Customs & traditions
Labour Day in Colombia is marked by large-scale marches and rallies organized by major union confederations, such as the Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT) and the Confederación General del Trabajo (CGT). Participants gather in main squares and march through city streets, carrying banners and chanting slogans related to labor rights, fair wages, and social justice. In Bogotá, the primary event takes place at the Plaza de Bolívar, where union leaders deliver speeches. While not a day for traditional food, many families use the holiday for rest and informal gatherings, though the core activity remains political mobilization.
Why it is celebrated
Labour Day is celebrated to commemorate the historical struggles of workers and to advocate for ongoing improvements in labor conditions. In Colombia, it symbolizes solidarity among workers and serves as a platform to highlight persistent issues such as informal employment, low wages, and labor rights violations. The holiday reinforces the importance of collective action and social dialogue in achieving a fair and equitable society.