January 16 is Sugarcane Cutter's Day
January 16 is Sugarcane Cutter's Day, a date established by Law No. 4,188, of August 17, 1984, with the aim of recognizing and valuing the importance of these professionals in the national economy.
The profession of sugarcane cutter has existed in the country for about 500 years, since the introduction of sugarcane cultivation by Portuguese colonizers in the 16th century. Currently, it is estimated that more than 300,000 workers work in this activity throughout Brazil, playing a fundamental role in the production of sugar and ethanol.
Despite their importance, sugarcane cutters face significant challenges, such as exhausting work hours, often precarious working conditions and pay based on the amount of sugarcane cut, which can lead to harmful competitiveness among workers.
The celebration of Sugarcane Cutter Day serves as a moment to reflect on the need for improvements in working conditions and public policies that guarantee the rights of these professionals, ensuring their health, safety and dignity in the exercise of their functions.
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