Every May 1st, International Workers’ Day—also known as May Day—offers a powerful reminder: behind every economic milestone, community initiative, and sector innovation, there are workers. Skilled, striving, and often overlooked, they make it all happen. 

International Workers’ Day is more than a calendar date. It’s a tribute to generations of laborers who fought—and continue to fight—for dignity, fair wages, safer workplaces, and economic equity. For us at Commonwealth Corporation, it’s also a moment to reflect on how our work contributes to this ongoing fight—and where we still have room to grow. 

The origins of International Workers’ Day date back to the late 19th-century labor movement and the fight for the eight-hour workday. On May 1, 1886, more than 300,000 workers across the United States went on strike to demand “eight hours for work, eight hours for rest, eight hours for what we will.” That same week, during a peaceful rally in Chicago’s Haymarket Square, a bomb was thrown, leading to deaths of both protestors and police, cementing the event’s place in labor history. 

In 1889, the Second International—a federation of socialist and labor parties—formally designated May 1 as International Workers’ Day to commemorate the Haymarket Affair and to promote labor rights globally. This decision helped spread the observance throughout Europe and beyond, solidifying May Day as a symbol of international worker solidarity.  

At Commonwealth Corporation, our mission is rooted in many of the same values that defined the early labor movement: access to opportunity, fair employment, and systems that work for all—not just a few. Through programs like the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund (WCTF), Youth Works, and The Workforce Training Fund, we support efforts that make our workforce systems more equitable and more effective. 

We focus on bridging gaps: helping immigrant and English-learner communities navigate career pathways, creating training partnerships with employers that center wraparound support, and expanding opportunities for young adults and returning citizens. Our work acknowledges that the labor market does not operate on a level playing field—and aims to help correct that imbalance. 

But, let’s be honest: while we are doing meaningful work, there is always more to be done. The systems we operate within are not immune to inequity. Even within our organization, we are still learning what it truly means to live out our values of equity and inclusion. Honoring International Workers’ Day is not just about recognizing progress—it’s about recommitting to the work ahead.

One of the simplest ways to observe International Workers’ Day is to pause and recognize the essential workers all around us—especially those whose labor is often invisible. Think: home health aides, grocery clerks, janitorial staff, delivery drivers, warehouse workers, and care providers. Many of these roles are disproportionately held by women, immigrants, and people of color, and too often undervalued in our economic systems. 

Take a moment to say thank you, acknowledge their efforts, and name the systemic barriers they face. Share a post. Start a conversation. Recognizing the value of all work—and all workers—is a cultural shift that supports broader economic change. 

Part of honoring workers is being willing to look inward. How can we, as individuals and as an organization, better support worker equity? 

This might mean: 

  • Asking deeper questions about who benefits from our funding models—and who might still be left out.
  • Exploring ways to center participant voice in our funding and evaluation practices.
  • Identifying small changes that could create more access. 
 

We’ve made strides but systemic change is a long game, and it requires both accountability and humility. 

This International Worker’s Day let’s honor the workers who built our communities and continue to advocate for those who are still fighting for a seat at the table! 

Check out these resources to learn more about the history of May Day and how other countries celebrate International Workers Day.