From Tokyo to Turin to Los Angeles, Trump-Era Policies Resonate in Global May Day Protests
May Day marches held across the globe this year—from Tokyo to Turin and Los Angeles—were unified not just by the traditional call for workers’ rights, but also by widespread criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s lingering political legacy. Protesters in multiple cities voiced concern over what they see as enduring effects of Trump-era policies, particularly those impacting immigration, labor protections, and international solidarity.
In Tokyo, thousands gathered in organized labour demonstrations, waving banners advocating for better wages, job security, and resistance against right-wing populism. While the event maintained its strong domestic focus, several protest leaders referenced global political movements and cited Trump’s influence on policies that embolden anti-immigrant sentiment in Asia.
Over in Turin, Italy, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of traditional trade unionism and global awareness. Marchers carried signs denouncing austerity, neoliberalism, and what they called the “Trumpization” of European politics. Labour activists warned that the spread of nationalistic economic policies continues to undermine collective bargaining and workers’ rights across the continent.
Meanwhile in Los Angeles, one of the largest May Day gatherings in the U.S. took place with thousands of demonstrators—many from immigrant communities—calling attention to what they described as the “unfinished business” of Trump-era immigration restrictions. Activists highlighted that despite changes in administration, many restrictive immigration measures remain in place or have lasting impacts on U.S. border and labor policies.
“Trump may not be in office, but the damage hasn’t been undone,” said Maria Gonzalez, an organizer in LA. “We’re here to remind every policymaker that workers and immigrants are still fighting for justice.”
Protests in other U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, and Seattle echoed similar themes, combining demands for a federal minimum wage increase, better worker protections, and an overhaul of immigration policies still shaped by the Trump administration.
Observers note that while May Day has traditionally served as a rallying point for labour rights, the 2025 demonstrations suggest a broader intersection of political issues. The continued focus on Trump’s policy footprint, despite his absence from office, underscores how deeply his governance reshaped global discourse on labor, migration, and populism.
Analysts also note that the coordinated tone of this year’s global protests reflects a growing sense of international solidarity among progressive movements. “What we’re seeing is a convergence of labor and political advocacy across borders,” said Dr. Lena Hoffman, a political scientist specializing in international movements. “May Day is becoming a stage not just for wage issues, but for opposing ideologies that threaten inclusive democracy.”
With upcoming elections in the U.S. and political shifts looming in Europe and Asia, this year’s May Day protests offered a preview of the growing momentum behind transnational activism. What began as a workers’ holiday continues to evolve into a broader platform for social and political resistance.
Source : Swifteradio.com
