May Day Strong National Day of Action Host Toolkit
Table of Contents
- What is the Day of Action?
- Join the Movement
- Register Your Event on Mobilize
- What is the Day of Action? (Continued)
- Our Demands to Build the Society We All Deserve
- Quick Links for Organizers
- Planning Your Event
- Getting Media Attention
- Key Event Roles
- Sample Event Agenda (Rally)
- May Day Tactics
- Resources for Hosts
- Planning Your Event (Detailed)
- Canva and Graphics
- Sample Social Media Posts
- Get Support
- Before the Event
- During the Event
- After the Event
- Accessibility and Safety
- Poster and Visuals
---
DISCLAIMER
This toolkit is evolving and being updated regularly. Full credit to Hands Off and Indivisible for sharing a sample toolkit we are building from!
WHAT IS THE DAY OF ACTION?
May Day Strong is a call to action and a stand against billionaire exploitation and corporate domination. Working people, parents, students, and community members will rise in every corner of the country to fight for dignity, justice, and public investment in our lives, not billionaire empires.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT: Whether you're hosting a march, rally, or protest, this toolkit equips you to make a bold impact. Register your event and help build the movement in your city. Be sure to check the map before registering your event so you’re not overlapping with another that’s already been planned!
If there’s not already a registered May Day event in your local area, the power is in your hands to host your own. This toolkit is for anyone hosting their own May Day Action to help you build, recruit, and execute your event.
REGISTER YOUR EVENT ON MOBILIZE NOW
If you want to be connected with a host for an event, reach out to support@maydaystrong.org.
WHAT IS THE DAY OF ACTION? (Continued)
THIS IS MAY DAY. Across the country—from fruit fields in California to classrooms in Chicago, from kitchens in Queens to loading docks in Atlanta—working people are rising up. We are laborers, parents, immigrants, educators, students, and neighbors demanding stronger, safer, and more dignified communities. We are demanding a country that puts our families over their fortunes—public schools over private profits, healthcare over hedge funds, housing over homelessness. This is May Day.
On May 1, 2025, in over 100 cities, we will honor the legacy of the workers who gave everything for the eight-hour day—and we will carry their struggle into today’s fight for a country that serves the many, not the few. This is not about commemorating the past. We are building the future.
Whether you're a single mom in Baltimore, a bus driver in the Bronx, or a nurse in New Orleans, you are under attack from billionaires who have bought off our politicians and rigged the system to crush working-class families. They’re defunding our schools, privatizing public services, attacking unions, and targeting immigrant families with fear and violence. This is a war on working people—and we will not stand down. These profiteers are trying to create a race to the bottom—on wages, on benefits, on dignity itself. They want to erase labor rights, break our unions, and silence immigrant voices. That is why May Day is not just a rally—it is a strategy. We are organizing for a world where every family has housing, healthcare, fair wages, union protection, and safety—regardless of race, zip code, or immigration status.
This movement is built by those closest to the pain—and therefore, closest to the solutions. We are reclaiming our power from corporate elites, and we will not be intimidated by Trump, Musk, or their billionaire backers. They have ruled for too long. Their time is up.
On May 1st, we will turn the page. This is the beginning of a new era—one where working families lead, immigrants are protected, and no one is left behind. This is not charity. This is not a request. This is a demand—and we are ready to fight for it.
STOP THE BILLIONAIRE TAKEOVER. WE ARE THE MANY. THEY ARE THE FEW. THIS IS MAY DAY.
OUR DEMANDS TO BUILD THE SOCIETY WE ALL DESERVE
1. Stop the billionaire takeover and rampant corruption of the Trump administration.
2. Protect and Defend Medicaid, Social Security, and other programs working people rely on.
3. Fully funded schools, healthcare and housing for all.
4. Stop the attacks on immigrants, Black, Indigenous, trans people, and other communities.
5. Invest in communities not wars.
Quick Links for Organizers
- Google Drive Folder: For easy access to all of the materials we are gathering for you, bookmark this Google Drive folder!
- Messaging: This is about building power. Use bold, truthful language that reflects the urgency of this moment.
- Sample Message Frame: Align your message with the broader movement using this guide.
- Security: Attend de-escalation trainings. Keep events peaceful, welcoming, and safe.
- Get Support: Reach out for help. Attend a May Day Strong webinar. We are in this together.
- Sample Email: Use this template to invite people in your network to attend or support your event.
- Sample Press Release: Use this template to send a press release out about your event to local press.
- If you are acting as the media coordinator for your May Day event, please fill out this media coordinator contact form so that our national press team can connect with you as needed.
- Social Media Toolkit Template: Use pre-written content to spread the word on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
- Folder with Graphics: Access ready-to-use visuals for digital and printed use.
- Downloadable Editable Graphics (CANVA)
Canva and Graphics
How To Use Canva Link:
1. Click the Canva link → Here!
2. Log into Canva (or create a free account)
3. Go to File > Make a copy
4. In your copy, update:
- Your local time, location
- Add logos in the designated spot
5. Export as PNG or PDF to share!
The base flyer graphics are flattened (rasterized) to keep the design consistent nationwide— only the editable areas (event info + logo) can be changed. If the font needs to be reuploaded to Canva it’s Manufaktur Black in the assets folder.
Planning your event
- Choose a high-visibility public location.
- Recruit powerful local speakers.
- Share your event through Mobilize and social media.
- Prepare signs, megaphones, and safety plans.
Getting media attention
Getting media attention is fundamental for this event. This section will guide you step by step on engaging the press and generating earned media for your events. While getting press to show up and cover your event is never a sure thing, these are best practices that will increase your chances.
Step 1: Build a media list
A media list is exactly what it sounds like; a list of reporters and media outlets in your area that you want to tell about your event. To get started, list all the newspapers, radio, and TV news stations you already know of, and then look on their websites for contact information. You’re usually looking for a “newsroom” email and phone number, often listed in the “contact us” menu on their website.
Step 2: Introduce yourself to reporters
Giving reporters a heads up about your event early before you send an advisory is an effective way to start building a relationship with them and get more media out to your events and to cover your group’s work. These emails are short and simple with fewer details than advisories. If you’re a few days out from your event or closer, skip this step and focus on sending your advisories.
Step 3: Advise your event
See sample media advisory here. The next step is to let the media know about your event. Advisories are emails you send to reporters and outlets on your media list with details about the event. The format generally breaks down what the event is about, the date, time, and location and who the spokespeople are.
Step 4: Prep your speakers
When the press attends an event, they will likely want to speak one-on-one with people there. So first, identify 1-3 people who will be ready to speak with reporters and help them prepare what they want to say. They should be ready to talk about your group, the event, why we’re mobilizing for May Day. The best practice is to stay close to your overall message, keep it concise, and have a few quotes ready to go (which you can also use in your press release).
Step 5: Run a great event
Once the event has started, focus on running the best event you can. If reporters come, connect them with one of your prepped spokespeople.
Step 6: Send out a press release
A press release is a communication, usually via email and no longer than about one page, that gives a reporter some of the basics they’d need to write a story about something: background about what’s happening, quotes from relevant people, and contact information they can use to find out more. The best practice is to send these as soon after your event as possible.
KEY EVENT ROLES
- Media liaison: Press outreach is most effectively handled by one person who can respond to requests and make connections with speakers.
- Master of Ceremony (MC): Identify at least 1 group member to be responsible for firing up the crowd, introducing speakers, starting chants, and making sure the overall program is running on time.
- Speakers & Storytellers: Speakers should be compelling and be able to speak directly to the harms of the crisis we face. Examples of speakers include impacted federal workers, faith leaders, elected officials—but be creative and thoughtful about whose voices you want to elevate.
- Photographer/videographer: Ask one person to take photos and one person to take video. Got something really special and visual planned? Think about hiring a professional photographer.
SAMPLE EVENT AGENDA (RALLY)
Before the Event
- Gather the people who have key roles: (MC, speakers, etc.). Bring snacks and water, transport signs, test any technology, ready any individual accessibility accommodations that have been requested, etc.
- Immediately before the event: The media liaison greets local press and gives reporters a press packet.
During the Event
- Kick-off the event: The MC starts some chants, and welcomes the crowd. They explain the purpose of the event and introduce the first speaker.
- Speakers: Each speaker talks for a few minutes about the crisis we face and the importance of fighting back and saying May Day.
- Close: The MC closes the event by thanking everyone for coming, clearly reiterating our asks, and finishing out strong with some chants.
After the Event
- Immediately after the event: Post your stories, pictures, and videos online with #MayDay2025
- Shortly after the event: Email your attendees to thank them for a great action. Immediate follow up is important for recruitment and group longevity! Invite all attendees and activists to your next event. If you don’t have an event on the books, make sure to send them an email anyway to see if any of the attendees would like to learn more about your group over coffee or simply to let them know to look out for your upcoming emails.
MAY DAY TACTICS
On May 1st, we will host demonstrations across the country to fight back against this crisis and demand accountability. Not all demonstrations will look the same, but they should all prioritize visibility and the core message: Stop the Billionaire Takeover! We are the Many, They Are the Few!
- March. Join thousands across the country on May 1 to march against the Trump-Musk Coup and billionaire takeover. Bring together your community to create a show of strength against this crisis, and be part of a national moment that changes the conversation—and turns the tide.
- Rally. Gather your community to rally together on May 1. Create a platform, invite speakers, and build a program designed to highlight the harms of the crisis we face—and what we’ll do to fight back. Rallies are a great way to involve impacted people, compelling speakers, and essential voices from allied communities. We’re building a big tent.
- Protest. If you’re in an area where it will be hard to get a crowd together, you can still participate! Either join a larger event in your region, or get some friends together and hold a smaller one. This could look like a gathering at congressional district office, or a banner drop. Visibility is the key component—so make your signs, get your banners, and plan your chants!
- Walk-In. During school walk-ins, parents, educators, and students, along with neighbors and community leaders, gather in front of their school 30-45 minutes before the school day begins. We rally and listen to a few speakers discuss what we want for the school, and then we all walk into the school together. Walk-ins can be used to celebrate your school, collaborate with school officials, or protest harmful school conditions and policies.
A core principle behind all May Day events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all hosts and participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values.
RESOURCES FOR HOSTS
Messaging
A key component of success for your event is a clear, direct message. May Day is a rejection of the corruption, lawlessness, and predatory politics of the Trump-Musk administration. Your speakers and visuals should all reflect this. Some of the key messages to communicate are:
- We are working people and we are building this country’s future. Everyone deserves good jobs, reliable services, and a fair economy—but Trump, Musk, and their billionaire buddies are destroying livelihoods, gutting public resources, and driving up costs just to pad their own pockets.
- We are rising up because our lives, our families, our public schools, and our health care are worth fighting for. The things you hold precious are absolutely on the chopping block for Trump, Musk, and congressional Republicans.
- We are drawing on the legacy of our labor and community movements to create a better future for us all. We have a winning record against billionaires who try to corrupt our democracy, target our families, and destroy our dignity.
- We are reclaiming our power, and we will not be intimidated. We demand a new era and we are ready to fight for it.
Security
Check out Indivisible’s Safety, Security, Rights & Conflict De-escalation resource, or watch MoveOn’s video on de-escalation and disruptions. In addition to these resources, review and share the ACLU’s Know Your Rights resource, and join MoveOn for a safety and de-escalation training for hosts!
Accessibility
Make your action accessible to all. Adapted from Action Network and Rooted in Rights. Include accessibility info in promotional fliers. Reserve space for wheelchair users and those needing seating. Offer ASL, interpretation, and clear sound systems. Assign visible Access Marshals for participants with walkers, canes and wheelchairs. List nearby accessible bathrooms and transit/parking options. Use clear, plain language in chants, signs, and speeches.
- #### Sample Social Media Posts {#sample-social-media-posts}
#MayDayStrong
Find promotional social media materials here.
- #### Get Support {#get-support}
As a host, you’re not alone! May Day organizers are here to help. Join upcoming webinars on:
- May Day Security Protocols Training: Tuesday, April 29 @ 3-4:30 PM ET (Register)
Planning Your Event (Detailed)
As we approach May 1st, it will be important to get your plans together so you can host a successful event. There’s a lot that goes into planning a demonstration, and below are just some of the key steps to follow when laying out your May Day event.
- Choose a time. It is also a best practice to check in with group members and potential speakers to see what’s most convenient before finalizing a time. As always, consider what times will be most accessible for folks in your community. Most May Day events will take place midday.
- Location and logistics. This is the next choice-point for your group. Try to prioritize landmarks or other public sites with high-visibility, like state capitols or city halls, major parks, or in other high traffic outdoor areas in your community.
- All May Day events should be in high visibility, public locations. May Day events should not be hosted at private business locations.
- Register your event to recruit through Mobilize. Once you have your event set, register it on Mobilize and it will show up on the May Day map of events. That way we can help push out your event and help recruit attendees.
- Delegate and determine roles. Demonstrations require a lot of support, and no one person can make them happen on their own. Be sure to identify a team of leaders to help carry out your event and empower folks to take on key responsibilities. Depending on the scale of your event, you may want to create teams or just have one point person for specific duties. You can find some specific ideas for roles below.
- Brainstorm and recruit speakers. If you’re holding a rally, you’ll need compelling speakers to anchor the agenda. Aim to lock in 2-4 speakers who can talk authentically about the crisis we face. Examples include: Federal Workers, Educators, Tenants, Union Members, Immigrant Workers, Elected Officials. These are just a few potential examples, but ideal speakers will be reflective of your community and be able to speak directly to the harms of this crisis from a local perspective.
- Build a recruitment plan and start recruiting. After posting your event to Mobilize, be sure to share it with your networks, both directly and on social media. Reach out to other people in your network and ask them to share, and think about creative ways to get the word out about your event—including local bulletin boards, flyers, and more.
- Prepare any props or setup needs. At the very least, you need a megaphone and a few signs with your demands. If it’s available to you, it is also helpful to have a podium, press packets, water, and banners. As a registered host, keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities for resource support from the May Day team.
Poster and Visuals
The poster and graphics are designed to be consistent nationwide while allowing local details to be updated by hosts through Canva edits. See Canva usage above for more details.
Accessibility and Safety (Continuation)
Make your action accessible to all by providing signage in plain language, ASL interpretation, and accessible routes. Ensure there are accommodations for attendees with mobility needs and accessible bathrooms.
Sample Messages and Social Content
- Sample Message Frame: Align your message with the broader movement using this guide.
- Messaging: This is about building power and reflecting urgency.
Quick Links and Support Email
For help, contact support@maydaystrong.org or join a May Day Strong webinar on security, messaging, and logistics.
May Day Strong Timeline and Outreach
The May Day Strong action kit emphasizes nonviolent, peaceful demonstrations and amplifying the voices of workers and communities most affected by economic injustice.
End of Toolkit Preview
This is the end of the preview of the May Day Strong toolkit. For full content, please refer to the source document provided by Hands Off and Indivisible.
Image Credit
Poster image included: may-day-poster.jpg. Alt text: Poster for May Day Strong National Day of Action showing raised fists. Caption: May Day Strong National Day of Action poster.
About the Organizers
This toolkit is built from the May Day Strong framework, with contributions credited to Hands Off and Indivisible for sharing a sample toolkit for local organizers to adapt and implement. The objective is to mobilize working families and communities to push for public investments and policies that prioritize people over profit.
Endnotes and Acknowledgments
- This document is intended for organizers and participants of May Day Strong events in the United States.
- All logos, templates, and resources are provided for noncommercial use by host organizations and volunteers.
About May Day Strong Vision
May Day Strong envisions a country where every family has housing, healthcare, safe communities, and strong public institutions that serve the many, not the few. The toolkit emphasizes nonviolent action, solidarity across communities, and a commitment to democratic governance and accountability.
Contact and Registration
If you need support connecting with a local host, or to find a host in your area, please email support@maydaystrong.org or visit the Mobilize event page and map to locate registered actions.
Closing Note
Thank you for your dedication to building power and advancing the rights and needs of workers and families. May Day Strong is a collective effort to demand a just and equitable future for all.
Image Gallery
[Poster: May Day Strong Action] may-day-poster.jpg
Reference Materials
- Indivisible Safety, Security, Rights & Conflict De-escalation resources
- MoveOn de-escalation video
- ACLU Know Your Rights resource
Ongoing Updates
This toolkit is evolving; check for updates and new resources in the Google Drive folder linked in Quick Links for Organizers.
Quick Setup Checklist
- Register your event on Mobilize
- Build a media list
- Designate a media liaison
- Recruit 2-4 speakers
- Prepare signs and a megaphone
- Ensure accessibility accommodations
- Plan safe, nonviolent actions
Appendix A: Sample Advisories and Press Materials
– Sample Media Advisory/Release template provided in the toolkit.
Appendix B: Localized Messaging Templates
– Sample language for flyers, chants, and talking points.
Appendix C: Safety Protocols
– De-escalation guidelines and training resources for hosts and volunteers.
Appendix D: Canva Design Notes
– Font: Manufaktur Black; Editable areas: event info + logo.
