30 April 2009
editorial
TOMORROW, Namibia's workers join other workers the world over to celebrate Workers Day, or May Day - other countries have their own Labour Day. This is a holiday for all workers, but do we all know the origins of the day?
Although it was subsequently marked every year after the initial strike in 1886, and the 8-hour day has since been achieved to the point of it becoming the norm, could it be possible that its original significance has now been lost and workers take the day as one of many holidays in the year, to catch up on all sorts of things, eat, drink and be merry?
One also wonders whether the significance of the marches that take place in the towns and countrywide is not lost to the young people who might wonder why all the fuss about work.
It is therefore important for us to educate the young people on the value of this day, and more so on the importance of work. That work is not just a means that justifies the end for survival. It is not just a means to put food on the table, etc, but that there is a certain dignity that is achieved by doing work, and doing it well. Here it is also important to stress that it does not matter what work it is, when and if you decide to do it, then do it well.
That way, you will be justified to ask for a reward for your efforts. You would also be justified to fight for certain conditions, which would, in turn, induce you to apply yourself in such a way that you become more productive. So, when we march along the streets and sing praise songs, we should also be able to avail ourselves for self-evaluation regarding whether or not we are worthy workers. - not slaves, but workers who are worth their mettle.
Having said all that, however, we should not overlook the fact that there is still need for the workplace to change, be it in conditions of service, policies or remuneration. The world is constantly changing and with it perspectives and even attitudes as well. Hence there will always be new ways of doing things, which would necessitate negotiations for change, etc. This is where professional unions will always have a role to play towards the betterment of workplaces and conditions.
Professional unions, however, should not just end at the negotiation table on behalf of workers. It is also incumbent on them to keep in touch with their rank and file for purposes of sharing ideas and educating the young people on their expectations and responsibilities.
And one good place to start is at the stadium, with the celebration of a day that is dedicated to activists who sacrificed their lives in order to make the world a better, and safer, place.
So, as we celebrate Workers Day tomorrow, we should not only think of what we should expect from our employers, but also take time to ponder on our responsibilities as workers who have the right work ethic, workers who value an honest way of earning a living.
Closer to home, as we celebrate this day tomorrow, let us also embrace our fellow workers, and be grateful that we have them, as we would not be able to do what we do best without them - all our co-workers. Every cog in the wheel has a function.
Happy Workers Day!
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