Thousands of people took to the streets in Durham and Raleigh on Thursday to mark May Day, also known as International Workers Day, joining global demonstrations focused on labor rights, immigration, and economic justice.
From Halifax Mall to Bicentennial Plaza in Raleigh and CCB Plaza in Durham, demonstrators raised their voices on a wide range of issues, including fair wages, immigrant protections, economic inequality, and opposition to policies under President Donald Trump.
“This is a celebratory day for all of us immigrants and American workers,” said Aura Acosta through a translator. Acosta was among the attendees expressing concern about immigration crackdowns and cuts to federal programs.
The Union of Southern Service Workers and Siembra NC were central to organizing the events. Many participants called for stronger protections for workers, including paid sick leave, the right to unionize, and an end to what they described as attacks on marginalized communities.
Demonstrators also criticized broader political trends. “This new government wants to run our country as if we’re commodities that can be bought and sold, and we’re not. We’re human beings,” said Durham resident Ieisha Franceis.
Roughly 3,000 people were estimated to have participated in the Raleigh marches and rallies. Issues highlighted ranged from support for Ukraine to concern over tariffs and economic policy.
NCGOP Chair Jason Simmons defended the administration’s economic strategy, pointing to $5 trillion in pledged private investments and efforts by the Office of DOGE (Division of Government Efficiency) to cut federal spending. Elon Musk, who oversees DOGE, reiterated his goal of achieving $1 trillion in cuts.
Meanwhile, critics like Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam questioned Republican priorities: “You can’t say we don’t have money and then give away tax breaks to billionaires while our schools and teachers struggle.”
The rallies took place amid growing budget debates in the state legislature. The recently passed DAVE Act, supported largely by Republicans, aims to boost fiscal oversight of public spending. Governor Josh Stein’s proposed budget includes the creation of an IMPACT Center to improve program performance.
As the sun set on Thursday’s events, organizers reminded attendees that May Day is about more than just a single day of action. “May Day is not just a moment. It’s a movement,” said Franceis.
