May Day today

Today, May 1^st, is observed in most of the world as a day to commemorate the “social and economic achievements of the international labor movement.” Some May Day events were marred by violence and disruptions though in the case of the Koreas today was a day for unity.

Regarding the Americas, the Cuban press has praised the “millions of Cubans” who have participated in today’s May Day parade in Havana. Yet so far Fidel Castro has been a no-show, despite the many rumors surrounding a possible public appearance and the publication of his latest article.

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez followed up yesterday’s announcement that his country would withdraw from the World Bank and IMF by taking over “operational control” of oil projects in the Orinoco region. Additionally, the Venezuelan government will raise the minimum wage effective today.

Lastly, pro-immigrant rallies will take place around the U.S. today though it is anticipated that they will not be as large or widespread as demonstrations on May Day 2006. Yet local officials in Los Angeles are expecting approximately 500,000 people to march today, while organizers of a Chicago rally are anticipating that more people will show up in reaction to immigration raids last week.

Links- Wikipedia, ABC Online, IOL, International Herald Tribune, Granma, Canada.com, The Latin Americanist, Monsters & Critics, CNN, Reuters, Boston Herald, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Sun-Times

Image- KansasCity.com (Flyer handed out in Los Angeles promoting today’s immigrant rights march)