On May 1, 2025, activists around the globe are rallying for International Workers Day, with protests focusing on labor rights, immigration reform, and opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies.

While the annual event is traditionally a celebration of workers’ rights, organizers in the United States are using this year’s May Day rallies to challenge the Trump administration’s anti-immigrant rhetoric, crackdowns on diversity programs, and increasing pressure on federal workers.

US Protests Center on Immigration and Workers’ Rights

From New York City to Los Angeles, thousands are expected to take to the streets in May Day demonstrations. But in immigrant communities, turnout may be more subdued.

“Everybody is under attack right now,” said Jorge Mujica, a veteran labor organizer in Chicago, where May Day marches have long held historical significance.

In Chicago, protests will continue beyond May 1 through Cinco de Mayo, incorporating walkouts and economic boycotts.

A Legacy of Labor Struggles

May Day’s origins trace back to the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago, when workers demanding an eight-hour workday were met with violence. Today, a monument in Haymarket Square honors the labor activists, many of them immigrants, who were convicted or killed during the protests.

The inscription reads: “Dedicated to all workers of the world.”

Global Protests and Diverse Causes

Around the world, May Day 2025 is being observed with protests spanning labor rights, economic inequality, and calls for peace. In Paris, Berlin, and Tokyo, demonstrators are also rallying against low wages and poor working conditions.

In the US, New York May Day events are uniting diverse movements including housing justice, healthcare, union protections, and pro-Palestinian advocacy, reflecting a growing coalition of causes.

“We’re organizing for a world where every family has housing, health care, fair wages, and safety — regardless of immigration status,” said the ACLU of New York.

Other major rallies include:

• Philadelphia: Workers’ event with Sen. Bernie Sanders

• Denver: State Capitol demonstrations

• Seattle, LA, DC: Labor and immigration rights marches

Fear and Resistance in Immigrant Communities

Since Trump’s return to office, immigration enforcement has ramped up, especially in sanctuary cities like Chicago. Organizers are anticipating lower turnout among undocumented immigrants due to fear of retaliation.

Still, they are expanding alliances with teachers’ unions, nurses, and other worker organizations to reinforce solidarity.

“There’s a lot of fear out there,” said Omar Lopez, a Chicago organizer. “But there’s also resolve.”

Celebrations Beyond Protest

While many are marching, May Day 2025 also includes peaceful celebrations of spring and community culture.

In Hawaii, it’s Lei Day, a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian heritage marked by flower leis. And in Annapolis, Maryland, the annual May Day Basket Competition showcases floral displays as a symbol of renewal and unity.

“It’s our way of saying goodbye to winter and welcoming spring,” said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley.