May Day in Albany Heralds a Rebirth

May 4, 2012

On May 1, millions of people across the world took to the streets, calling attention to social and economic inequality and corporate greed. For over a century, May 1 has been known as May Day or International Workers Day—a time when working people unite and raise their voices above corporate noise. It also marks the coming of spring: a time of rebirth and new possibilities. It was in that spirit that labor and community activists in Albany, NY joined members of the Occupy movement, breathing new life to a wave of worldwide protest against economic injustice.

Beginning at noon, there was a march from Academy Park, across from the state Capitol, with about 300 people chanting throughout city streets. Police blocked traffic in front, and the crowd snaked through State Street, Pearl Street, Broadway and back to Lafayette Park, stopping at Bank of America, Verizon, the State Education Department building and the Greyhound bus station.

1199SEIU delegate Gail Cook said, “It was really exciting. The crowd got bigger as we marched through different spots in the city. The energy was terrific.”

The event was lively and peaceful. Still, 3 protesters were arrested and charged with second-degree obstruction of governmental administration and disorderly conduct. Albany County District Attorney David Soares said that he would not prosecute anyone for nonviolent offenses, a promise he made good on when more than 80 demonstrators were arrested after they crossed into Albany’s Lafayette Park past curfew last November.

The day continued with workshops, discussions, speak-outs and music throughout the evening. At the speak-out, 1199er Antonella Pechtel told the crowd, “We’ve been talking about solutions today. Let’s start with education and grassroots organizing. Next, everyone here needs to be registered to vote and register someone else to vote.” She pointed to the state Capitol and said, “It’s our responsibility to elect progressive policy makers.”

At 10 p.m., Occupy Albany returned to the spot in Lafayette Park where they first pitched their tents last October. Aware of the 11 p.m. curfew, about 80 people gathered, a drum circle banged out a backbeat and state troopers approached. The crowd chanted. “"We are unstoppable; another world is possible" Then, one by one, twenty protesters were arrested by State Police after 11 p.m. All were issued appearance tickets.

“Cook said, I’m not sure what it is, but I have the sense that this is just the beginning and we will be heard.”