Chicago Public Schools and Chicago Teachers Union Designate May 1 as Day of Civil Action for Students
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) have designated May 1 as a "day of civil action" for students, even though classes will still be in session. The CTU proposed a resolution to observe May 1 as a day of "Civic Action and Defense of Public Education," allowing teachers and students to participate in civil activities. CPS confirmed that May 1 will be a regular instructional day, but schools can permit "optional participation" in civil engagement events for students who want to attend protests or engage in civic activities during the school day.
Principals have the authority to allow students to participate in events and field trips, including civic engagement activities on May 1, following the existing CPS student travel policy and field trip procedures. Students in grades six to 12 are allowed one excused absence per school year to attend a civic engagement event with parental permission, as long as the event is open to the public and sponsored by a nonprofit organization or government agency. CPS stated that this agreement balances the need for classroom time while honoring the history of civic action in Chicago and beyond.
In the future, May Days could be considered professional development days starting in 2028. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the decision to recognize May Day as a way to honor its historical significance. He emphasized the importance of participation in advocating for the future while commemorating the history of May Day in America, which originated in Chicago with the demand for an eight-hour workday and the Haymarket Strike. Mayor Johnson highlighted the city's commitment to ensuring a safe and impactful May Day through collaboration with all city agencies and departments.
Overall, the designation of May 1 as a day of civil action by CPS and CTU allows students to engage in civic activities while maintaining regular instructional schedules. This decision reflects the commitment to honoring the historical significance of May Day and promoting solidarity and community resistance in Chicago.