DETAILS

Countries around the world observe May 1 as International Workers Day, a day to celebrate working people and the struggles and gains made by unions and the labor movement. Here in DC, May 1 is also recognized as DC Statehood Day, in recognition that DC will eventually secure our full rights and political power when we are admitted as the 5/1st state.

May Day 2026 will take place as workers everywhere — and especially here in DC — are under attack. The Trump regime has fired tens of thousands of workers in our region and is busting federal unions. It is conducting immigration raids on workers traveling to work or even on the job. The regime has occupied DC since August, has arrested more than 10,000 of our neighbors, and has shot at and murdered people here.

On Friday, May 1, we are saying: enough is enough.

We invite everyone to join DC workers, labor leaders, and community members for a day of action on May Day here in DC. Want to know more about what to expect? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions.

When/Where
This day of action will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026. We’re organizing actions throughout the day and you are welcome to join one or all of these events. Visit the Schedule page to learn more.

Do I have to attend an event to participate?
Nope! Take the May Day DC pledge to let us know you plan to participate in this day of No Work, No School, and No Shopping even if you don’t join us at the events downtown in DC.

Are other cities doing this too?
Yes. The May Day Strong coalition is uniting people all over the country to take action on May 1 in solidarity with each other. This is the DC action of the May Day Strong network.

I have a full time job. How should I participate?
We want everyone to meet us at the Washington Monument at 12 PM on May 1 in the way that is best for you. If you work in DC, you have guaranteed Paid Sick and Safe Leave which provides paid time off to support the health or safety of yourself or a family member. Personally, we’re sick of this administration’s attacks on DC and you might be too. If you have access to paid time off through your employer, you can put in a request for personal leave or vacation time. Or, if you have a flexible schedule, flex it.

I’m a union member. How should I participate?
Several major unions are participating in this event. If you’re a union member, talk to your shop steward and coworkers about how to participate in this day of action.

How are schools and students participating?
DC high school students and college students have already led the way by walking out of class in protest of ICE and the National Guard’s ongoing occupation. We encourage families and schools to make plans in advance for how to participate in this day.

What about small businesses?
We encourage businesses in DC to close on this day and for workers to join us at the Washington Monument at 12:00 PM. We understand this creates a severe financial strain for small businesses and we don’t take that lightly. We encourage consumers to shift your daily shopping to small local businesses, and to shop the day before or the day after May 1.

Should I join this action alone?
Taking action is always better (and safer) together with people we trust. Consider inviting a group of friends, neighbors, coworkers, or other people you know to participate in this action with you. Free DC’s guide for How to Organize a Crew has tips for how to get started for this event and beyond.

Who is organizing this?
May Day DC 2026 is led by a coalition that includes 32BJ SEIU, ATU Local 689, We Are CASA, Congregation Action Network, DC Jobs with Justice, Free DC, Just Peace Ministries, Metro DC DSA, the Metropolitan Washington Council AFL-CIO, National Nurses United, UNITE HERE Local 25, SEIU Local 500, Sunrise DC, the Washington Teachers’ Union, and more.

Can my organization get involved?
Yes! We welcome partner organizations to organize a contingent or delegation to participate in this event. Fill out our partner form to get involved.