Here in the U.S. we don't usually think of May 1st "as synonymous with International Workers' Day," as Wikipedia puts it. The U.S. celebrates Labor Day in September.

But International Workers' Day is a significant and important day to recognize.  It's meant to honor people who one could call "workers," who work for others and who band together for representation in order to have their rights upheld. When you look back into history and over the centuries of grim treatment and exploitation of everyday people, it becomes clear that the labor movement's contributions have benefited us all to an amazing degree. Two day weekend! Eight hour workday! Minimum wage!

On Etsy, many of us are working to represent ourselves directly. It's a different experience to work for oneself — to be in complete control and responsible for our own mistakes. But ultimately, artists and makers who work full time on their own projects find the lifestyle fulfilling. Considering how recently in history women have had to fight for their equal rights to economic status, it's gratifying to take a moment and let the 96% female stat sink in. And yet, many of us who would like to make a living wage from our art or craft are still struggling to do so.

That said, even if you're not "Etsying" full time, taking time to work on your own projects outside of your day job is important for the soul.  Perhaps there are some among us who feel that work should be kept separate from our creative pursuits because we don't want to ruin it by "making it job." I can see both sides.

Personally, I think an important aspect of Etsy is the way it is drawing together so many self-workers. I am inspired by the labor movement and the power they achieved together.  Here's to May Day!  Who knows what we will achieve together!

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments!