Chicago Public Schools and Teachers Union Designate May 1 as Civil Action Day
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) have announced that May 1st will be recognized as a “civil action day,” even though classes will still be in session.
Recently, the CTU pushed for May 1—also known as May Day or International Workers’ Day—to be marked as a day of “civic action and defense of public education,” suggesting it as a day off for both teachers and students.
CTU Vice President Jackson Potter stated that for November’s midterm elections to truly reflect democracy and support quality education along with workers’ rights, it’s essential for all Chicagoans to voice their beliefs. He emphasized the importance of standing against what he described as “authoritarian billionaires” who disregard the rules.
In a statement released on Friday, CPS confirmed that May 1st would still be a full school day, requiring both students and staff to attend.
However, CPS acknowledged that state law permits schools to facilitate “voluntary participation” in civic engagement activities for students interested in protests or community events during the school day.
The CPS statement indicated that principals could allow students to engage in events and field trips related to civic engagement on May 1st, provided they adhere to the district’s student travel regulations and standard field trip protocols.
Additionally, CPS mentioned that students in grades 6 through 12 could be excused for one absence per school year for attending a civic engagement event, as long as they have parental permission and the event is public and organized by a nonprofit or governmental group.
Dr. Macquline King, CEO and Superintendent of CPS, expressed that this agreement respects the educational time families expect from CPS while also honoring Chicago’s strong history of civic involvement.
Looking ahead, CPS noted that starting in 2028, future May Days might be designated as professional development days for staff.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the announcement as a celebration of May Day’s historical significance. He encouraged Chicagoans to take part, saying it would allow the community to acknowledge its past while advocating for a hopeful future.
Johnson highlighted Chicago’s pivotal role in the origins of May Day in America, recalling how workers once campaigned for an eight-hour workday during the Haymarket Strike. He assured the public that the city’s agencies would work together to ensure a safe and impactful celebration on May Day.
