The Leeds May Day march took place today, featuring prominent speakers advocating for workers’ rights amidst global challenges to public services.
Paul Novak, Jane Aitchison, and Richard Burgon MP spoke at the event, emphasizing the urgent need for better pay and support for community health workers. Khady Diaga stated, “You can fire me if you want, but I will not stop asking for better pay, and I will continue to encourage my colleagues to do the same.” This sentiment resonated with many attendees.
The march is organized by Leeds TUC in collaboration with Stand Up To Racism. It highlighted the importance of collective action in the face of austerity measures affecting public services. The event also celebrated traditional May Day activities like maypole dancing, connecting historical practices with modern struggles.
Key facts about the Leeds May Day celebration:
- May Day has Roman (Floralia) and Celtic (Beltane) origins.
- Whitelands College was founded in 1841 as a training college for women teachers.
- John Ruskin inaugurated an annual May Day ceremony at Whitelands College in 1881.
- The ceremony includes a procession and maypole dancing.
This year’s events occur against a backdrop of growing membership in unions. For instance, Fórsa has recruited 10,000 new members in 2024 alone. Meanwhile, UNISON reported a net growth of 20,000 members last year.
As the march concluded, speakers called for continued advocacy. The Public Service Fightback conference will take place in Spain this September, aiming to unite efforts across borders. Attendees left energized and determined to fight for their rights.