CHICAGO — On Thursday, May Day demonstrations attracted hundreds of thousands of people from the U.S. and around the globe. Protesters aligned in opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies, criticizing his aggressive tariffs, feared to incite global economic instability, and his administration’s tough stance on immigration. In the United States, the annual International Workers’ Day revolts were themed against what participants perceive as detrimental actions by the administration against labor rights, diversity programs, and government employees. Demonstrations took place in numerous cities, including New York, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C., where vibrant rallies took place.
In Chicago, throngs gathered in a West Side park before parading down to the lakefront. The crowd, featuring union members, immigrant rights advocates, pro-Palestinian supporters, and student activists, made noise with drumlines and chants of “No justice, no peace!” Latrina Barnes, a 48-year-old certified nurse assistant, voiced her concerns about potential impacts on Medicaid and Medicare under Trump, rallying for the first time on May Day. Protesters added humor by showcasing a Trump puppet, an inflatable Trump baby chicken, and a Trump piñata designed like a bull.
In Philadelphia, Vermont U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders addressed a crowd outside City Hall, which then moved into the streets. Some participants, wearing signs that read “Workers over billionaires,” sat at an intersection, leading to police intervention and arrests. Los Angeles saw thousands marching with signs like “Immigrants make America great” and “Migration is beautiful,” amidst a festive parade atmosphere. April Verrett, head of the Service Employees International Union, highlighted efforts against politicians and billionaires motivated by fear and falsehoods.
Speakers in Los Angeles called on elected officials to uphold the rights of workers and immigrants. The event was organized by the Los Angeles May Day Coalition, combining labor unions and community groups under the rally cry “One Struggle, One Fight — Workers Unite.” In Atlanta, hundreds, including former U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention employees, gathered across from the state Capitol. With CDC set to lose thousands of workers due to administration cuts, Deblina Datta, a retired worker, stressed the significance of supporting laborers impacted by layoffs.
In New York City, legal professionals rallied in Lower Manhattan’s courthouses for “National Rule of Law Day,” criticizing what they perceive as disregard for the justice system. Later, thousands regrouped for a May Day march, brandishing LGBTQ flags and banners protesting Trump’s immigration policies. Veronica Salama from the New York Civil Liberties Union shared opinions on the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University student, as a chilling message to dissenting voices.
Across Europe, protests addressed grievances against U.S. trade policies and the spread of right-wing agendas. French union leaders expressed their contempt for the “Trumpization” of global politics, while in Germany, labor leaders warned of eroding workers’ rights. Swiss demonstrators in Bern condemned fascism and militarism. Meanwhile, Spanish cities hosted marches demanding reduced work hours and accountability for a week’s complete power outage.
Asian protests also reflected concerns over Trump’s economic stances. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te referenced U.S. tariffs in discussions about an economic revival plan. In the Philippines, protest leader Mong Palatino cautioned that Trump’s trade wars could harm local economies. Taipei saw union members marching with requests for job security initiatives. Manila witnessed protests seeking wage increases and enhanced local employment protections.
In Istanbul, Turkey, May Day protests spotlighted democratic values with calls to release jailed opposition mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. His imprisonment has prompted significant demonstrations. Authorities restricted access to central Istanbul and halted transport services. The Istanbul governor’s office reported the detention of 384 individuals.