May Day rally unites workers and families in call for fair wages
Around 400 people gathered at Kranzplatz on Tuesday to mark May Day. The event brought together workers, families and activists for speeches, discussions and celebrations. Children played nearby as banners displayed calls for fairer wages and stronger labour rights. Sascha Schmidt of the DGB opened the rally with a focus on workers’ struggles. He criticised proposals to cut welfare benefits and extend working hours. In his speech, he demanded fairer wealth distribution, stronger collective bargaining and higher taxes on large fortunes.
Marion Hackenthal, district head of IG BCE, followed with a similar message. She stressed that solidarity must remain central to labour movements. Hackenthal also warned against rolling back hard-won rights, like the eight-hour workday, and condemned rising workplace insecurity. Beyond labour issues, Hackenthal addressed broader societal concerns. She condemned far-right movements and called on democratic forces to protect social cohesion. Political groups and organisations engaged with attendees throughout the event, keeping discussions lively. The celebrations extended beyond Kranzplatz. Similar gatherings took place in other neighbourhoods, with conversations and activism continuing late into the day.
The rally at Kranzplatz remained open and family-friendly, blending political speeches with community spirit. Organisers and attendees left with a clear call to defend labour rights and push for economic fairness. The event reinforced May Day’s tradition as a moment for both reflection and action.
