01 May 2021 | 08:17 PM UTC
US: Protests planned or underway May 1 in urban centers nationwide to commemorate International Workers' Day
Protests planned or underway in urban centers across the US, May 1. Increased security, disruptions likely; clashes possible.
Event
Labor and activist groups plan to protest or have begun protesting in major cities across the US, May 1, to commemorate International Workers' Day (May Day). Actions are most likely to manifest in form of gatherings or marches through city centers. Prominent protest sites include central squares or parks, major roadways, and outside government offices. Attendance will vary by location but could be in the thousands at larger gatherings.
Additional police will likely deploy to all major gatherings. Large crowds and associated security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in demonstration areas; public transport could be canceled or diverted. Activists seeking to circumvent security cordons may gather in alternative areas than announced in affected cities. Isolated clashes between police and protesters are possible, particularly if activists attempt to breach security cordons, are overly disruptive, or attempt to block major roads.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Monitor local media for up to date information on demonstrations and related transport disruptions; allow extra time for travel in affected locations.
