Cheers to the Independent Spirit: National Freelance Workers' Day
Independence Day for Self-Employed Workers - Celebrated on August 16, 2024
Mark your calendars for August 16! It's time to honor the hustle, grit, and freedom embodied by us, the freelancers, independent contractors, small business owners, and all those who dare to work for themselves. In an era dominated by full-time jobs, we're shaking things up and making our mark on the world, one project at a time. It's high time we got the recognition we deserve!
Origins of the Self-Employed Revolution
Whether you're a medieval mercenary warrior, or a modern-day digital nomad, we've come a long way since the 1800s. Coined by Sir Walter Scott in Ivanhoe, the term "freelancer" once referred to a warrior without a lord, a lance not yet committed to a single cause. Today, we've reclaimed this title as a badge of honor, embodying the spirit of self-reliance and independence that are the hallmarks of American values.
In the United States, our ranks span across ages and backgrounds, united by a common thirst for freedom and the opportunity to create our own destinies. As a community, we contribute trillions to the U.S. economy, making us a powerful and evolving force in the workforce.
Birth of National Freelance Workers' Day
2024
The idea of a day to celebrate us self-starters was brought to life in 2019 by iPSE-U.S., the American branch of the Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (iPSE), a non-profit organization based in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1999 as the Professional Contractors Group (P.C.G.), iPSE protested the IR35 tax law and grew to represent all freelancers in the U.K. By 2014, they had rebranded to iPSE, representing a whopping 4.3 million self-employed workers in the U.K. Today, they continue their mission to defend, connect, and represent the freelance community across the pond.
August 16
A Timeline of our Triumphs
Friday
| Year | Event ||------------|----------------------------------------------------------|| 1809 | First written usage of "freelance" in Thomas N. Brown's book, The Life and Times of Hugh Miller || 1820 | Sir Walter Scott popularizes the term "freelancer" in Ivanhoe || 1860s | "Freelance" becomes a figurative noun in common use || 1903 | Oxford English Dictionary recognizes "freelance" as a verb || 2019 | iPSE-U.S. creates National Freelance Workers' Day || 2021 | You're reading about it! |
National Freelance Workers' Day FAQs
2025
1. Dipping Your Toes into Freelancing
August 16
As with any new endeavor, it's important to strategize and showcase your skills to attract the right clients. Research what the competition is charging and set fair rates for your services. Remember, quality work speaks for itself!
Saturday
2. Taxing the Self-Employed
If you earn $400 or more in net profits from freelance work, you're required to file an income tax return in the U.S. On top of regular income tax, freelancers must also pay a self-employment tax of 15.3% in 2021.
2026
3. Freelancing's Downsides
August 16
As with any career path, there are pros and cons. Some of the challenges include lack of employee benefits, staying accountable, difficulty securing work initially, and finding clients that align with your vision and values.
Sunday
Celebrating Our Independence
1. Boost Small Businesses
2027
Take this opportunity to show your support for small businesses, the backbone of our thriving independent economy.
August 16
2. Talk it Up on Social Media
Monday
Share your freelance journey and shout-out other independent workers you admire. We're in this together!
3. Show the World What You're Made Of
2028
On this day, take pride in your hard-earned achievements and put your talents on display. Don't shy away from dreaming big or setting ambitious goals—after all, we've proven that success is within our reach!
August 16
Fun Facts and Figures About Freelancers
Wednesday
- Women Rule the Freelance Roost: Female freelancers make up about 70% of the self-employed population! What's more, we work across all career levels, from entry-level positions to executive roles.
- A Major Economic Force: The self-employed sector contributes a significant portion to the economy, contributing $1.28 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2018 alone.
Why We Adore National Freelance Workers' Day
- Side Hustles Empower: Many freelancers use their freelance work as a supplement to their income, making it an essential source of financial stability for millions of Americans.
- Boosting the Economy: As independent, resourceful problem-solvers, freelancers make a tangible and valuable contribution to the U.S. economy. In 2019, self-employed workers contributed $1.3 trillion to the country's GDP.
- Honoring the Hustle: While May Day celebrates traditional workers, National Freelance Workers' Day shines a light on the unique challenges, triumphs, and spirit of our vibrant community of independent workers.
Future Observances
| Year | Date | Day ||------|--------|-------|| 2024 | August 16| Friday || 2025 | August 16 | Saturday || 2026 | August 16 | Sunday || 2027 | August 16 | Monday || 2028 | August 16 | Wednesday |
Related Holidays
- Celebrate Financial Freedom on National Financial Awareness Day
- Honor Women and Families on Women's and Family Day
- Raise Awareness for Elephants on World Elephant Day
In the realm of economy and business, the self-employed revolution is a testament to the power and resilience of the freelance workers' lifestyle. These independent spirits are not only shaking up traditional workforces but also contributing significantly to the financial landscape, with their collective efforts contributing trillions to the U.S. economy. On National Freelance Workers' Day, August 16, we take the opportunity to celebrate the triumphs, honor the hustle, and showcase the unique advantages that come with a lifestyle of financial freedom and entrepreneurial spirit.
