May Day celebrations took place across the world, and so they should, it is our day, the day when we come together to celebrate our working class heroes and our victories. It is a time for solidarity with all those involved in the struggle for equality and freedom, a time to renew old friendships, a time to make new friends. In this, Glasgow is no different, it has its May Day celebration, though this year there was a wee difference. There was the usual sanctioned, sedate, march through the city centre, ending up at The Fruit Market in Candleriggs for the usual speeches by the usual political ballerinas. It was a fair turnout, considering the weather forecast was for heavy rain, but the weather was kind, and though cold it was dry. My own guesstimate was around the 1,500 mark. All the usual banners were there lead, off by a pipe band.
Then there was that wee difference. A group of locals decide to try to organise a May Day picnic on Glasgow Green, after the march, where we feel that Glasgow May Day used to be celebrated, and should be celebrated. Again despite the horrible weather forecast, about 30 or so turned up, and the place was soon festoon by banners and flags. We had poets, guitar player/singer and face-painting for the kids, even the rather mature kids. Food appeared from generous volunteers and great time was had by all. Everybody agreed that it was a great success and hope to repeat it next year, with greater numbers. A heart felt glow of gratitude to all those who turned up and made it possible. See you next year, on The Green.
