WORCESTER—A May Day rally organized by Worcester Indivisible is scheduled for Thursday, May 1, from 4-6 p.m. on Worcester City Hall Common. Dubbed “May Day Strong! Worcester,” the event is one of many taking place nationally on International Workers’ Day.
The rally is expected to bring together working families, union members, educators, and immigrant rights advocates. According to the event’s organizers, the focus will be on labor rights, public education, housing, healthcare, and immigrant protections. The event is subtitled “Stop the Billionaire Takeover,” referencing opposition to privatization and the influence of wealthy individuals in public policy.
In a statement, rally MC Mysti Green said, “We’re not just protesting for one day. We’re organizing to build lasting power in every neighborhood, shop floor, and school.”
The rally features speakers from local organizations and community groups, including:
- Heather Stanek, Worcester Education Justice Alliance
- Melissa Verdier, Educational Association of Worcester
- Kirsten Frazier, educator and advocate
- Elyzabeth Frontaan, public school advocate
- Dr. Jessica Pepple, RFK Community Alliance
- Deborah Hall, YWCA Worcester
- Jermoh Kamara, former Worcester School Committee member
- Nelly Medina, Worcester parent and school committee candidate
- Jessica Rentsch, school adjustment counselor
- Brendan O’Malley, chair, Holden Democratic Town Committee
- Members of the Party for Socialism and Liberation and local educator unions
The program begin with an opening prayer by Pastor Michael Wells and includes live musical performances by Robb Millett, Lydia Fortune & Charles Ketter, Wally Zadroga, and Jubilee Connoly.
The May Day tradition, which dates back to the late 19th century, is globally recognized as a day of worker solidarity. Organizers say the Worcester rally will continue that legacy while addressing local concerns related to labor, education, and equity.
