On May 1, 2025, Milan witnessed two significant events that highlighted the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and safety. The first was a procession organized by the Cgil, Cisl, and Uil trade unions, which began at 9:30 AM from Porta Venezia and made its way to Piazza della Scala. This demonstration emphasized health and safety in the workplace, carrying the slogan "United for safe work." The unions aimed to raise awareness about the pressing issues surrounding labor conditions, particularly in light of alarming statistics from the previous year.
According to Cgil, in 2024, the Milan metropolitan area experienced 44 fatal accidents—approximately one every eight days. Additionally, there were 36,464 reports of workplace injuries, averaging ten per day, and 670 cases of occupational diseases, which translates to two per day. These figures underline the urgent need for improved safety measures in workplaces across the region.
The demonstration was also a platform to promote a referendum campaign scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2025, which includes a question specifically focused on safety regulations. Union leaders, including Luca Stanzione, Giovanni Abimelech, and Enrico Vizza, were set to speak at the rally, addressing the crowd about the importance of safe working environments and the need for legislative change.
In the afternoon, another procession took place, known as the May Day Parade, which began at 2:00 PM from Piazzale Loreto. This event was organized by base unions such as Cub, Adl Cobas, Usi Cit, and Sial Cobas, along with other movements like Smash Repression. The May Day Parade took a more festive yet combative approach, aiming to protest against precarious work conditions and the government's controversial security bill.
Walter Montagnoli, the national secretary of Cub, articulated the sentiments of many participants, stating that the parade was a response to the intertwining issues of low wages, precarious employment, and a diminishing social safety net. He expressed concern over the increasing repression associated with the government's security legislation, which many view as an attempt to limit the rights to strike, protest, and manifest dissent.
As the parades unfolded, they served not only as a means of protest but also as a celebration of the dignity of work. The spirit of May Day, recognized internationally as Labor Day, resonated throughout the city. It is a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of workers and advocating for their rights.
The significance of May 1 extends beyond the streets of Milan. It marks the arrival of May, the fifth month of the year in the Gregorian calendar, which is also the last month of spring in the northern hemisphere. The name May is derived from the Roman "Maius," named after Maia, the goddess of fertility and abundance. In Christian tradition, May is particularly dedicated to the Virgin Mary, reflecting a blend of cultural and religious observances.
With the arrival of May, many people take the opportunity to express their hopes and gratitude. It is a time for reflection, as well as a celebration of the value of work and the dedication of those who strive daily to make a living. Phrases and images shared on social media convey messages of appreciation for labor and the importance of recognizing the efforts of workers.
As people around the world celebrate Labor Day, the themes of respect, dignity, and the right to work resonate strongly. Many share sentiments such as, "Today we celebrate the value of work and those who commit themselves with passion," and "May this day bring rest, smiles, and new energy to face what lies ahead." These messages capture the essence of the day, emphasizing the need for recognition and respect for all workers.
In Milan, the parades were not just about protest; they represented a collective call for change in a landscape marred by economic challenges and social issues. The juxtaposition of the two processions—the more traditional union-led march and the vibrant May Day Parade—highlights the diverse approaches within the labor movement, each advocating for a better future for workers.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that the fight for workers' rights is far from over. The events of May 1, 2025, in Milan served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many in the workforce today. The statistics shared by the unions paint a stark picture of the challenges that need to be addressed, while the enthusiasm of the participants reflects a persistent hope for improvement.
Looking ahead, the upcoming referendum on safety regulations will be a crucial moment for workers and unions alike. It presents an opportunity to address the pressing issues that have plagued the labor force, and the outcome could significantly impact the future of workplace safety in Milan and beyond.
In summary, May 1, 2025, was a day filled with both celebration and urgency. The demonstrations in Milan captured the essence of the labor movement's ongoing struggle for safety, dignity, and rights in the workplace. As workers rallied together, they not only honored their past but also looked forward to a future where their contributions are recognized and valued.
