Robert Fettgather has served as Special Consultant in psychometrics to the Departments of Education and Developmental Disabilities for the State of California. He holds a specialist credential in learning handicapped and community college credentials in both learning and developmental disabilities.
The Institute for Personality and Ability Testing has certified Robert Fettgather as a Stress Management Trainer, and Medical Hypnosis Seminars of the Los Gatos Institute has certified him in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
International Workers' Day, also known as May Day, is a celebration of labor and the achievements of workers worldwide. May Day is upon us again.
The roots of May Day can be traced back to the late 19th century, when workers in both the United States and Europe mobilized to advocate for improved working conditions, notably pushing for the implementation of an eight-hour workday. A pivotal moment occurred on May 1, 1886, when thousands of workers across the United States initiated strikes, demanding the standardization of an eight-hour workday. However, the culmination of these efforts resulted in the tragic Haymarket affair in Chicago, where what started as a peaceful labor rally escalated into violence following the detonation of a bomb, resulting in the loss of lives among both law enforcement officers and civilians.
In the aftermath of the Haymarket affair, May 1st emerged as a day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices made by the involved workers and perpetuating the fight for labor rights. This event garnered international recognition, prompting workers and labor unions worldwide to adopt May Day as a day of solidarity and protest. But Bay Day is even more than the fight on behalf of labor.
Beyond labor-related issues, the essence of May Day extends to encompass broader social justice movements, such as environmental activism, gender equality, and anti-war efforts. It serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of diverse struggles and the paramount importance of collective action in addressing systemic injustices.
In the contemporary era, May Day retains its significance, as workers grapple with new challenges within the globalized economy. From the prevalence of precarious employment and income disparities to the erosion of labor rights and the advent of automation, workers persist in advocating for dignified treatment, fair wages, and safe working conditions.
Furthermore, May Day has evolved into a platform for championing various causes, including immigrant rights, racial justice, and the rights of marginalized communities. It serves as an opportune moment to amplify the voices of those most impacted by economic and social injustices, demanding substantive change from policymakers and employers alike.
This day ought to serve as a poignant reminder that the struggle for labor rights persists and that through collective efforts, a brighter future can be realized for workers across the globe... as well as for a just society for us all.