Marching for Justice, Rain or Shine: GCC Stands with Immigrants and Workers on May Day

On May 1st, under gray skies and steady rain, thousands of people from across Wisconsin gathered in Milwaukee for the annual May Day march, “A Day Without Immigrants and Workers.” Members of GCC were proud to serve as marshals for this powerful event, organized by Voces de la Frontera. The weather didn’t dampen the spirit—it only highlighted the resilience and unity of the crowd.

May Day is more than just a march. It’s a vibrant tribute to the historic victories of labor unions and a rallying cry against today’s injustices facing immigrants and working-class families. For GCC, it was an opportunity to live our values of kindness, inclusion, equity, and respect in real time.

As marshals, we were on the ground to keep the route safe and accessible for all. We lined the perimeter, assisted those who needed support, and stayed alert for any potential disruptions. Thankfully, the march remained peaceful and joyful, filled with the energy of families, activists, and community members walking shoulder to shoulder.

Before the march stepped off, we heard rousing calls to action from inspiring leaders like:

• Christine Neumann-Ortiz, Executive Director of Voces de la Frontera

• Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson

• Mark Denning, Oneida Nation member

• Reverend Greg Lewis, Executive Director of Souls to the Polls

As the march moved through the city, the streets came alive with bold artwork, handmade signs, and chants in support of labor rights, immigrant justice, education, and democracy. It was a moving tapestry of hope and resistance.

The march concluded at Zeidler Union Square Park, where we helped maintain a safe, welcoming space for the final rally. There, the crowd heard from:

• Fernanda Jimenez-Hauch, Comité Sin-Fronteras

• Missy Zombor, President of the Milwaukee Public School Board

• Jim Gramling Jr., Former Milwaukee Judge

• Passionate Milwaukee student activists, the future of the movement

Now more than ever, our immigrant communities are under attack—from cruel policies to dangerous rhetoric. That’s why GCC continues to show up. Our commitment to kindness, inclusion, equity, and respect isn’t just a mission statement—it’s a call to action. Standing with marginalized communities, especially in moments of fear or struggle, is where our values matter most.

Rain or shine, we’ll keep showing up.