Happy May Day – International Workers' Day

Dear Friends:

International Workers' Day, known as Labor Day in some countries, celebrates workers, labor organizing and unions. In the US, this tradition has largely been lost, but a renewed and militant labor movement is bringing it back!

When the United Auto Workers (UAW) achieved historic gains last fall, they structured contracts with all three big automakers so they would end on April 30, 2028. This allows us to strike on May Day or International Workers Day, UAW President Shawn Fain said in announcing the agreements. Its more than just a day of commemoration. Its a call to action. Fain went on to invite unions around the country to align your contract expirations with our own.

On May 1, 1886, workers at 13,000 businesses across the United States participated in a general strike to demand safe working conditions, higher wages and an eight-hour workday. Corporate and police repression, particularly in Chicago, culminated in the Haymarket massacre four days later.

May Day is a national public holiday in many countries. May Day's origins are also connected to the European spring festival of May Day.

Solidarity Forever,

Andy Mager
SCW Coordinator

As Mother's Day approaches, I am thankful for the 59 years I had with my Mom before she passed away early in the pandemic. Like most of us, my mother was a central person in my life. She taught me that I had agency in the world, and that I can, and should, use my talents to make the world a better place for all people. She embodied a role model of someone who cared deeply about her family, and about the broader community and world, of which we are a small part.

Please check out some of the offerings from Syracuse Cultural Workers to share with your mom, or with other mothers in your life. Our mugs, T-shirts, tote bags, lovely framed prints, Mother's Day cards and much more can serve as symbols of your love and appreciation.

All the best,

Andy Mager
SCW Coordinator