National Day of Action billed “Workers Over Billionaires” planned across the country, including Massachusetts and Rhode Island; here are their plans and why

Hundreds of marches and rallies are planned across the country, including Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

On May 1st, thousands of workers, unions, students, educators, and community organizers across the United States will participate in May Day Strong — a coordinated National Day of Action centered on the theme “Workers Over Billionaires.”

The mobilization calls for a nationwide “economic blackout” and mass mobilization, encouraging participants to not work, not go to school, and to not shop on May 1st.

Organizers describe the day as a powerful demonstration of working-class solidarity and a direct challenge to corporate power and economic inequality.

The movement is pushing for several key policy priorities, including taxing the ultra-wealthy through measures such as the Ultra-Millionaire Tax, increased funding for public education, healthcare, and affordable housing, stronger protections for workers’ rights and broader efforts to protect democracy and reduce the influence of billionaires in politics. They also want ICE to be abolished and no more wars.

Hundreds of organizations have already endorsed the action, including major unions like the Massachusetts Teachers Association, the National Education Association, Indivisible, Democratic Socialists of America chapters, and many local community groups.

Events are being planned in cities and towns across the country, with significant activity expected in Massachusetts, including Boston, Holyoke, Worcester, UMass Amherst, and other locations throughout the state.

The rally closest to Fall River is State Highway 140 & Brownell Avenue in New Bedford from 4:30 – 6:30pm. One is also taking place in Bristol, Rhode Island.

Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events and participants are asked to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree and to act lawfully.

More information and events can be found on the official website: maydaystrong.org