Press Release

May Day On The New Haven Green

Friday, May 1, Noon – 7pm

Contact: Jeff Spalter at (203) 843-3069

Come celebrate May Day, International Workers' Day, Friday May First from noon until 7 pm on the New Haven Green. This is the 23rd consecutive year of May Day on the Green. May Day is a multi-cultural festival featuring live music, poetry, dance, children’s activities, speak-out time, a MayPole Dance, free vegetarian food and displays and information tables from local activist and social service organizations.

Performers include Joseph FireCrow (Native-American music), Sons of God (reggae rap), Mr. Bronx (reggae rap), Brian Jarawa Gray (African drumming), Parker’s Tangent (alternative rock), Reyes Del Bajo Mundo (Latin hip hop) and Revival (heavy blues rock). Valarie Kaur will speak about her documentary Divided We Fall and Ken Brown of the Center for New Community will speak about immigration and race. There will be a soccer workshop presented by the New Haven Soccer League. Our May Pole Dance will be led by Out On A Whim featuring Bill Fischer and Mickey Koth. The celebration will end with a march in support of immigrant rights.

Historically, May Day is an ancient celebration of fertility and renewal. In 1886, during the fight for the 8-hour workday, May 1st was the date of nationwide strikes. May 1st later became International Workers Day in honor of the Chicago martyrs who died in the struggle for workers’ rights. May Day is celebrated all over the world. Our celebration on the Green is a time to reclaim our labor history and join in solidarity with the people around the world who continue the struggle for peace, justice and human rights.

In case of rain May Day will be held in the United Church on the Green, 270 Temple Street (at the corner of Elm Street). For more information and a complete schedule visit www.maydaynewhaven.org or call (203) 843-3069 or (203) 562-2798.

Posted: April 15, 2009