adminTODAY is Workers’ Day.
Also known as May Day, it’s a special day for the working class both in the formal and informal sector.
Some employers treat their workers with free lunch or hampers to motivate them. This shows they really appreciate the work being done by their employees.
Getting employed – either in the formal and informal sector – is something a lot of people dream of.
It comes with a sense of pride and responsibility.
For college graduates, it’s a dream come true after years of studying and hard work. To others who didn’t do well in school, it’s a blessing from God just to get a job.
Since we spend most of our time at the workplace, the environment should be good for us to thrive and match the targets which our employers set for us.
We also create a lot of friends at our workplaces including those who become very close to us they even end up being family.
Once we bond as a team, we are bound to produce the desired results and meet our targets.
As such, the workplace should bring about lasting memories once we retire or leave a company.
However, the workplace can be hell on earth, especially when employees are being ill-treated.
Sexual harassment, poor remuneration and toxicity are some of the factors which can easily kill the team spirit at work. Labour movements are usually vocal on this day as they make a lot of promises.
Workers are usually pampered with fake promises that never come to pass.
Workers Day was established in 1889. Prior to its formation, socialist groups and trade unions were commemorating the Haymarket strike, which occurred on May 4, 1886, in Chicago, Illinois. It became an annual commemoration from 1886.
Afterwards, it became a global holiday where workers’ grievances are usually tabled by socialist groups or trade unionists.
In Zimbabwe, the Workers’ Day is special as some employers show appreciation for their workforce who have excelled.
The day is also used to motivate others to find the same commitment which is pushing their colleagues to reach for the stars. In the informal sector, it will be business as usual while some departments will be closed in the formal sector.
For critical staff in the medical field, security, judiciary and media, May Day is not a holiday as their services are needed.
With the advent of technology, as demonstrated during the Covid-19 induced lockdown, most players will be working from home.
May Day can only be enjoyable when workers’ grievances are being addressed.
Besides poor remuneration and sexual harassment at some workplaces, employees need help on issues related to mental wellness.
Most employees are going through a lot but they don’t know who can assist them.
With a surge in depression and suicide, employers should prioritise the mental wellness of its workforce as we mark Workers Day.
Online Reporter