Hundreds Rally in Newburgh on May Day to Demand Workers’ Rights and End to ICE Terror

Hundreds of protestors took to Downing Park in Newburgh this Friday to mark International Workers Day with a sharp message: workers’ rights are under siege, and the Trump administration’s policies are fueling fear and inequality. The event was part of a nationwide wave of rallies organized by the May Day Strong coalition, a network of hundreds of groups demanding an end to ICE raids, protection of voting rights, and a fairer economy that puts working families first.

The rally commemorated the 20th anniversary of the 2006 “Day without an Immigrant” protests, when millions of immigrants and allies walked off the job to highlight their essential role in the economy. Grace Ott, co-chair of the immigrant Solidarity working group for the Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), made clear the stakes: “We want fair wages for everyone, good working conditions and, for our immigrant community, we want them to feel safe and not be terrorized by this administration.” Ott emphasized that safety and dignity must extend to all workers, regardless of documentation status, recognizing immigrants as a vibrant part of the Hudson Valley community.

Marching down Broadway with signs demanding an end to “billionaire control” of America, many protestors donned white to symbolize peace amid the ongoing political turmoil. Mark Sanchez, a United Federation of Teachers member and rally organizer, condemned the Trump administration’s “continued attack on organized labor, on our immigrant communities and on our planet.” He called on “we the people” to stand up against what he labeled tyranny.

Local leaders joined the call. Daniel Atonno, Poughkeepsie City Councilman and Mid-Hudson DSA member, highlighted the hypocrisy of immigrant workers—like his own mother—who care for the sick yet live in constant fear of ICE raids. Atonno pointed to pending state legislation aimed at ending local cooperation with ICE, framing it as a crucial step toward protecting immigrant workers’ rights and lives.

Michelle Koury of Indivisible Goshen, a group resisting authoritarianism, stressed the broader economic inequality fueling unrest. “It’s a worthy endeavor to honor and support and serve the workers of this country who help make our country great,” she said, rejecting divisions between immigrant and non-immigrant workers and emphasizing shared humanity.

This May Day rally in Newburgh was more than a symbolic gesture. It was a direct challenge to an administration that weaponizes fear and inequality to consolidate power. As attacks on labor rights, immigrant communities, and democratic institutions escalate, grassroots resistance like this is crucial. The message was clear: workers demand respect, safety, and justice—and they will not be silenced.