May First Will Be Biggest Ever!

Local 848's retirees are hosting a cookout at our hall, 2218 E Main, at noon on May 1st. Gerardo Contreras has agreed to cook fajitas for all members and seniors.

"Saint" Gerardo is famous for his cooking and floats at civil rights events. He is pictured (with sunglasses) with other UAW leaders at an MLK march. 

Since the holiday was originated in Chicago in 1886, International Workers Day has been celebrated around the world, but not so much in the United States due to severe repression following the May 1st general strike for the 8 hour day. The leaders of the movement in Chicago were hanged and anti-union repression was nationwide.

This Year is Different

Unions are fighting hard for our rights in 2026. Some of the largest unions initiated efforts for big turnouts around the country. Their website, http://maydaystrong.org, shows a growing number of events similar to the 3,300 events held on "No Kings Day" March 28. Eight million people protested that day, including several thousand in 24 events around Dallas-Fort Worth.

Usually, May First planners are careful to avoid calling for any events on a working day. Picnics are usually planned on the Saturday or Sunday near the actual date. But this year, May 1st falls on a Friday and many organizers are taking up the slogan, "No Work, No School, No Shopping!"  It is not likely that we will see a general strike like the one in 1886, but May 1, 2026 will definitely be a strong showing of union strength.