Join May Day celebrations in Duluth and the Twin Cities

Celebrate International Workers' Day for workers' rights and solidarity! MAPE is sponsoring two May Day events in Duluth and Minneapolis: the fourth annual Twin Ports May Day Labor Rally will take place on Saturday, April 27, in Duluth and the Twin Cities International Workers Day March is scheduled for Wednesday, May 1, in Minneapolis.  

Twin Ports Rally in Duluth 

Twenty-two regional and state labor organizations have endorsed the Twin Ports rally, including MAPE Locals 1401, 1402 and 1701. The free picnic lunch, music and program will take place 12–3 p.m. at the Duluth Labor Temple, 2002 London Road. The 2024 theme is “Unearthing our History and Forging Our Future.” Register in the Portal  

“May Day speaks strongly to the issues and spirit of organizing – what workers’ rights are all about. It’s an international observance and helps us realize how workers around the world are interconnected, especially in a global economy. As Samuel Gompers often said, ‘An injury to one is an injury to all.’ Labor often gets played against itself, across bargaining units, states and countries. May Day connects us worldwide to counteract these divisions,” MAPE Region 17 Director David Clanaugh said. 

Solidarity, history and creative expression will be reflected in this year’s program in Duluth, including an art presentation. Noted labor historian Peter Rachleff, an emeritus professor at St. Paul’s Macalester College, will be the keynote speaker. He will be joined by a variety of speakers including Carolyn Olson, a narrative artist living in Duluth, who will share her work through a slide show exhibit.   

Historian Rachleff will tap his Duluth experiences and research to talk about past critical regional coalition-building efforts that offer models, inspiration and wisdom for forging labor’s future. Rachleff was involved in the mid-1980s Hormel strike and the mid-2000s Northwest Airlines mechanics strike, writing a book about the first struggle. An engaging storyteller, Rachleff has also researched how marginalized and oppressed groups have participated and led the way in the labor union. Rachleff was a popular speaker at MAPE’s Delegate Assembly last year. 

Twin Cities International Workers Day in Minneapolis 

On Wednesday, May 1, in Minneapolis, we are joining with labor groups and immigrant rights groups to honor the contributions of workers around the world and advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and social justice. The program starts at 5 p.m. and the march begins at 5:30 p.m. at 3000 Minnehaha Ave. Register

The march will be a vibrant display of unity and empowerment. It’s a great opportunity to connect with fellow workers, community organizations and supporters of labor rights. Attend with your friends, family or coworkers and make sure to wear your MAPE gear!