May 1 is a national day of action, a day for workers to mobilize and gather to advocate for workers’ rights. In the past, rallies and events have been held across Chicago to commemorate the day. This year, a “no work, no school and no shopping” action is being encouraged as a protest to the administration of President Donald Trump while advocating for immigrant and labor rights.
Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union have sparred in recent weeks over whether the district will cancel classes on May 1 to participate in the “no work, no school and no shopping” action. Mayor Brandon Johnson, a former CTU organizer, also weighed in, saying “May 1 is happening.” After CEO Macquline King rejected an initial request from the teachers union, an agreement was later reached that allows staff and students to attend rallies.
Here’s what to know about the May Day debate.
Will CPS cancel school for CTU ‘Day of Action’ May 1?
Chicago Public Schools CEO Macquline King rejected a request from the teachers union to cancel classes on May 1, but, facing pressure from City Hall and its allies in the district, said the board could ultimately overrule her decision. Read more here.
What does Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson say about it?
Mayor Brandon Johnson said Wednesday that “May 1 is happening,” signaling his support for the nationwide day of protest as the Chicago Teachers Union continues to urge the school district to cancel classes so that students and staff can participate.
“We have an opportunity in this moment to push the narrative, not just at the federal level, but for Chicago and the state of Illinois to show up on behalf of working people,” said Johnson, a former CTU organizer and close ally of the union. Read more here.
CPS to remain open May 1, but staff and students can attend rallies
Chicago Public Schools will not cancel classes on May 1, though the district has agreed to provide buses for students and teachers who choose to attend an afternoon rally in Union Park and other civic engagement events.
All CPS staff are expected to report for a full day of work, but principals can approve field trips to May Day events, the district said in a statement Friday. Read more here.
Some Chicago Public Schools parents push back
More than two dozen Chicago Public Schools parents and community members gathered outside a Pilsen elementary school Monday morning, voicing concerns over the district’s decision to hold a day of civic engagement on May 1.
While classes will remain in session, CPS reached an agreement last week to provide transportation to students who chose to participate in an afternoon rally, and to allow teachers to implement a curriculum on civic engagement. Read more here.
