History is repeating itself
Lessons from Lithuania
Happy Labor Day! I learned something new today that I had forgotten since my school days. While many of you may already know this, the origins of International Labor Day are tied to a peaceful strike that took place in Chicago on May 1, 1886. International Labor Day was first celebrated on May 1, 1889, to honor this event. International Labour Day: Origins, history and significance Interestingly, the United States and Canada moved their Labor Day holiday to the first Monday in September, largely to mark the unofficial end of summer.
This got me thinking about how other countries observe the day. While I was in Lithuania, most businesses were closed on August 15 for the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. In Lithuania, Labor Day is officially celebrated on May 1st, but it hasn't always been recognized. During the Soviet occupation, the country was required to participate in state parades. Labour Day in Lithuania After gaining independence in 1990, the holiday was no longer officially recognized, partly because Lithuania already celebrates 16 public holidays, nine of which are Catholic observances. National Holidays in Lithuania in 2025
The holiday was later reinstated by the Social Democrats. However, unlike some southern European countries, you won't see large-scale labor rallies in Lithuania. A source I found states: "Today, Labor Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated on May 1st and is a holiday dedicated to workers and their rights. The day has become a symbol of the struggle for better working conditions, higher wages, and protection of workers' rights around the world."Labour Day in Lithuania in 2025 | Dayspedia
To me, this is a sign of progress. The younger generation in Lithuania is embracing the advances made for workers' rights and looking toward the future, while those who remember the Soviet occupation continue to reflect on the past.
