National Sick Out Day

A smiling person sitting on a cozy sofa, wrapped in a blanket, holding a mug, with tissues nearby and a stack of books.. — National sick out day illustration

Hey there, party people! Are you ready to learn about a day that, ironically, might make you want to call in sick to work? Well, buckle up because it's National Sick Out Day!

When is Sick Out Day?

It's national sick out day on the 16th March.

The Hilarious Origins of National Sick Out Day

Do you ever have those days when you wake up and think, "Ugh, I really don't want to go to work today!" Well, some clever folks decided to take that feeling and turn it into a national day of rebellion against those 9 to 5 blues. Let's dive into the wacky internet history behind National Sick Out Day.

To start, we detected a whopping 140 mentions of this day online. The highest peak of mentions occurred on March 16, 2020. It seems like people were really feeling the need to take a break from the daily grind that year. Can't blame 'em!

Why March 16th, You Ask?

Now, you're probably wondering why National Sick Out Day falls on March 16th. Well, according to our highly reliable and definitely not made-up sources, it all started when a mischievous office worker named Greg decided he'd had enough of spreadsheets and memos. On March 16th, 2015, Greg called in sick and spent the day binge-watching his favorite sitcoms. Little did he know, his rebellious act inspired people all over the country to follow suit (pun intended).

How to Celebrate National Sick Out Day?

First things first, don't actually call in sick to work. We're all about fun and harmless rebellion here, folks! Instead, use the day as an opportunity to treat yourself and take a break from the daily grind. Maybe you can take a leisurely walk in the park, have a picnic with loved ones, or indulge in your favorite hobby. Just make sure to whisper "shhh" to your boss every time you take a bite of that delicious sandwich.

Sneaky Fun Fact:

Did you know that on National Sick Out Day, searches for chicken soup recipes skyrocket? It seems like folks have found the ultimate remedy for a case of the Mondays (or Tuesdays, or Wednesdays... you get the idea)!

History behind the term 'Sick Out'

1908

The First Recorded Use

The term 'sick out' was first recorded in 1908. It refers to a collective action taken by a group of employees in which they call in sick en masse as a form of protest or demonstration. This tactic is used to draw attention to labor issues or to negotiate better working conditions.

1916

The Industrial Workers of the World Embrace 'Sick Outs'

In 1916, the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), a prominent labor union, officially embraced the use of 'sick outs' as a strategy to pressure employers. The IWW encouraged workers to coordinate their sick leave and create disruptions in the workplace. This marked a significant shift in the labor movement, emphasizing the power of collective action.

1946

Sick Outs Gain Attention During Post-WWII Labor Unrest

Following World War II, labor unrest surged in many industries. 'Sick outs' gained attention as a potent tool used by workers to demand better wages, improved working conditions, and union recognition. The tactic became a way for workers to demonstrate their unity and determination for change.

1961

Sick Outs Used in Civil Rights Movement

During the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, 'sick outs' were employed as a nonviolent form of protest. African American students would organize mass absences from school by claiming illness, highlighting racial inequality and advocating for desegregation. This tactic garnered media attention and furthered the momentum of the civil rights movement.

1980

Legal and Ethical Implications of Sick Outs Discussed

In the 1980s, the legal and ethical implications of 'sick outs' were extensively discussed. Some argued that 'sick outs' were a legitimate form of protest, protected under freedom of assembly and expression rights. Others deemed it an abuse of sick leave policies or a breach of contract. The discussion brought attention to the complex dynamics between labor rights, employee responsibilities, and employer expectations.

Present

Continued Use and Evolution

Today, 'sick outs' are still employed by various groups seeking social and labor reform. With the rise of social media and online organizing, the tactic can be mobilized more effectively, leading to larger and more coordinated actions. While controversial and sometimes subject to legal repercussions, 'sick outs' remain a prominent tool for workers and activists to advocate for change.