May Day is observed annually on 1 May and is internationally recognised as Workers’ Day or Labour Day in many countries.
When is May Day?
It is a day meant to honour the contributions of workers and to promote fair labour practices and rights in the workplace.
In the United States, it is not a public holiday, but it has long been used by labour activists and organisations as a day to rally and demand better working conditions.
The historical significance of May Day
The origins of May Day can be traced back to the labour movement in the late 19th century, specifically the fight for an eight-hour workday in the US.
The date commemorates the Haymarket affair of 1886 in Chicago, where a peaceful rally turned deadly after a bomb was thrown at police. Several police officers and protesters were killed, and the event became a pivotal moment in the global labour rights movement.
Since then, May Day has symbolised worker solidarity, union strength, and the ongoing struggle for labour justice. Around the world, it’s a day when people gather to march, protest, or attend events that focus on workers’ rights, equality, and economic justice.
What’s happening on May Day in 2025
In 2025, protesters are taking to the streets across the United States on May Day to protest against the policies of President Donald Trump and to stand up for the rights of workers and immigrants.
These protests come after two massive national demonstrations earlier in April, showing growing dissatisfaction with Trump’s leadership and actions since re-entering the political spotlight.
According to reports, nearly 1,000 cities are participating in May Day actions. While turnout may be smaller than the weekend rallies earlier this year, tens of thousands are still expected to join. Protesters are highlighting issues such as the privatisation of public services, defunding of schools, suppression of unions, and harsh immigration policies.
The national protest website states:
“This is a war on working people – and we will not stand down… We won’t back down – we will never stop fighting for our families and the rights and freedoms that propel opportunity and a better life for all Americans.”
In Los Angeles, activities began with a morning rally followed by a march focusing on immigrant solidarity. In New York, organisers planned an evening protest. Other major cities like Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle are also hosting multiple demonstrations throughout the day.
Jorge Mújica, an organiser with Arise Chicago, told Democracy Now,
“The Trump administration miscalculated completely… They are attacking everybody at the same time, and that [has] enabled us to gather a really broad coalition… and put together this event on May Day.”
The protests are drawing support from labour unions, university staff, students, federal employees, and advocacy groups who see the Trump administration’s first 100 days as a threat to basic democratic and worker protections.
