Thousands to Rally in Phoenix for May Day during Nationwide Economic Action

April 21, 2026

Phoenix, Arizona – Thousands are expected to gather in downtown Phoenix on May 1st to increase visibility around a nationwide economic disruption. No Kings on March 28 brought together over 8 million people nationwide from various backgrounds to say no to the unconstitutional, cruel, and authoritarian actions of the Trump administration. On May first, organizers seek to continue the momentum. 

May Day is not another No Kings. Instead, it encourages people to use the momentum from the mass mobilization to participate in collective economic action. The May Day Coalition is calling for a day with no work, no school, and no shopping, to help those new to the movement get comfortable removing their labor and money from the oppressive system. 

“Our generation is done watching this administration, and the billionaires empowering it, take away our futures,” said Nathan Taylortaft, high school student and co-director of East Valley Unite. “This oppressive system is taking away opportunities for our future, so we are shutting it down on May 1st. We The People are using our economic power in a day without school, work, or shopping, to stop the money machine feeding the Epstein Class. Students play a critical role in shutting down the schools, because if we don’t show up, nothing happens, and that’s the point. Then, we’re flooding the streets to make our message clear: People Over Profit. Peace Over War. People Over Billionaires.”

Larger economic actions will require participation from all parts of society. From students and teachers to labor unions, momentum needs to be built, and May Day is a critical part of building up to something bigger. Protests, rallies, and marches bring those people into the movement, which is why May Day events will be held across the country. For details on May Day Phoenix, go here. For a map of events nationwide, go here.

A commitment to nonviolent action is a core principle behind all May Day events. All hosts and participants are expected to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who may disagree.