By Thainá Rocha

May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is a time to honour the struggles of workers throughout history and to celebrate their contributions to society. However, it is not just a day for labour rights; it is also a reminder of the intersectional struggles of women in the labour movement.

Women’s Leadership in the Labour Movement: Pioneers of Change

Women have played an indispensable role in advocating for better working conditions and fair wages. They have led labour struggles and risked their lives to secure fundamental rights. However, they have also encountered discrimination and inequality in the workforce. For instance, women in the late 19th and early 20th centuries worked long hours in hazardous conditions and earned low wages. Despite this, they were often excluded from the benefits of labour laws and unions, which primarily focused on male workers.

But women’s struggles for labour rights gained momentum in the early 1900s, with the formation of influential groups like the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union (ILGWU). Founded in 1900, the ILGWU played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s labour rights. The union helped organise strikes and protests, resulting in significant improvements in working conditions and wages for women in the garment industry.

Women at the Forefront: Present-Day Labour Struggles

Women have continued to be at the forefront of labour struggles, fighting for their rights in the present day. For example, in 2018, women in Spain organised a nationwide strike, demanding gender equality and an end to workplace discrimination. The strike brought together women from all walks of life, including domestic workers, factory workers, and healthcare professionals, highlighting the intersectional nature of women’s struggles in the workforce.

Despite this, women continue to face significant challenges in the workplace, including the gender pay gap, sexual harassment, and discrimination based on pregnancy. Women often confront social barriers that prevent them from advancing in their careers, such as gender stereotypes and the “glass ceiling.” Regrettably, the notion of femininity remains strongly associated with domesticity, making it challenging for women to establish themselves in the job market. While men are viewed as natural leaders or bosses, women who display assertiveness are often labeled as bossy.

Therefore, May Day is not just a day to celebrate the labour movement; it is also an occasion to acknowledge the vital contributions of women to the workforce. Women have played a crucial role in advocating for labour rights and securing better working conditions and wages for all workers. However, the fight for workers’ and women’s rights is ongoing, and it is crucial to continue fighting for equality and justice. May Day serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work that remains to achieve true labour and gender equality.