Unions have organized workers to band together to better working conditions and benefits. Facing sixteen hour days, dangerous workplaces and less than fair wages, unions were able to make demands for better conditions by holding strikes and protests. They improved workers lives, their pay, and their treatment. Small children were forced to work in factories instead of attending school. In the past police broke up the demonstrations and hurt, even killed some of the participants. The celebrations show appreciation to workers who build cars, make clothes, and put together computers and televisions.