May Day was observed with due dignity in Sunamganj on Friday (May 1), with the slogan calling for transforming the struggle for an eight-hour workday into a broader fight against wage exploitation.
The programme was organised by the Bangladesh Trade Union Sangha, Sunamganj District Committee. Workers from various sectors gathered at the old bus stand area of the town in the morning, carrying red flags and banners.
A rally was brought out from the gathering point, marching through key roads before concluding at the Shaheed Muktijoddha Jagatjyoti Public Library auditorium, where a discussion meeting was held.
The meeting was chaired by district committee president Sukhendu Talukder Mintu and moderated by acting general secretary Monir Mia. Leaders from several labour organisations, including local workers' unions and farmer groups, attended.
Speakers recalled the 1886 Chicago labour movement, highlighting its role in establishing workers’ rights. They said May Day represents not only the demand for an eight-hour workday but also a broader struggle against exploitation.
They alleged that rising living costs and low wages continue to push workers into economic hardship. The speakers stressed the need for unity to secure fair wages, workplace safety, and social protection.
Several demands were raised, including revising the national minimum wage in line with market prices, ensuring workplace safety, protecting trade union rights, and extending legal safeguards to informal sector workers such as those in construction, hotels, and bakeries.
The programme concluded with a call for collective action to build a fair and inclusive society inspired by the spirit of May Day.
