Riverside May Day March Blends Labor Rights, Culture and Politics

Hundreds gathered Saturday for the annual Inland Empire May Day march through downtown Riverside to support worker rights and immigration reform.

May Day, celebrated on May 1st, marks International Workers' Day in most countries, though the United States officially recognizes Labor Day in September. In recent years, U.S. labor movements have increasingly held May Day events in solidarity with global workers.

I located the procession first at the County Administration Building, following it as it moved along Lemon Street toward the Mission Inn. A white truck with "INLAND EMPIRE MAY DAY" banner led marchers through the city.

Volunteers in safety vests kept traffic flowing with minimal disruption at intersections.

The Coalition for Immigrant Justice was visible among participants, with indigenous dancers in traditional regalia walking with the group. Signs ranged from economic concerns to immigration issues.

A few brief shouting matches occurred when marchers passed attendees of the Show and Go car show, with both sides exchanging words. The participants continued walking with no physical altercations.

The rally stopped in front of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, where the lead truck parked along the curb and participants gathered on the museum's lawn. Families with children, older residents and workers walked through Downtown. Despite some strongly worded signs, the overall atmosphere remained peaceful.