May Day march honors immigrants, calls for changes to immigration policies
CBS 58 MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- May 1 is May Day, also known as International Workers' Day. It's a day rooted in the history of workers' rights.
In Milwaukee, hundreds of protesters gathered to celebrate and demand change in the nation's immigration policies.
People of all ages took part in a march. Organizers say the demonstrations highlight the role immigrant workers play in the local economy.
"Milwaukee is a working person's town," said participant Todd Marsh. "Not a working man's town, a working person's town. So, we're united. People will come together to support working people and good people wherever they are."
Led by immigrant rights organization Voces de la Frontera, the May Day march stretched about three miles, starting on the city's south side and ending in the heart of Milwaukee.
“We’ve been doing this our whole lives and we can’t stop now. We have to fight for our country,” said Eva Hagenhofer, a marcher.
Organizers say this May Day parade is also focused on calling for more changes to immigration policy.
Just recently, the city passed an “ICE Out Milwaukee" legislation. The resolution requires law enforcement officers to be unmasked and to show identification.
“A lot of people came here, working hard and all of that. And they earned to be here. They worked to get here, they got here. And I feel it’s unfair to take all of that away from them,” said Jayda Williams, a marcher.
Marchers say here, they’re united – not by what part of Milwaukee they live in, but by what they believe.
“Stepping forward is all that matters. As long as you speak up, you can make a difference,” said Williams.
Similar rallies are taking place nationwide, with some workers and students walking out in solidarity.
