Most Russians have not yet got used to calling May 1 "the Day of Spring and Labor", as it is officially named today. For many, it is the Soviet-style "Pervomay" - the day of worker's solidarity
As we can see from official statements, celebrations tomorrow will be little different from those of the Soviet era, and it would be hard to expect anything else from a country where most officials begun their careers in the USSR. In cities and towns across Russia, there will be all the same events happening as usual - demonstrations, marches, concerts and fun fairs. Most people will use their free time (three days off) to relax - traveling, in their summer cottages or on their sofas in front of the TV.
Originally a worker's struggle day, May 1st will be celebrated widely by Russia's trade unions. Activists in many cities will join the rally calling for increase pay. The rallies, supported by the ruling United Russia party, among others, will have nothing to do with opposition. Governors and other officials have been invited to speak at the events.
Other places will have the traditional May 1st parade, with representatives of trade unions, political parties and NGOs participating, along with thousands of locals.
Over 26,000 people are expected to take part in the march in Vladivostok, Far-Eastern Russia. Marchers will form 24 columns: plant workers, party members, teachers, students, artists, retirees, etc. The procession will be headed by the local governor.
In Moscow, every political force is planning a rally or a march on May 1 - United Russia (the party plans to gather 2 mn. supporters), Communists, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions, LDPR, and others. Opposition leaders Garry Kasparov and Eduard Limonov will leave for Saint Petersburg, where their bid to stage a protest rally was authorized by the city's government.
Overall across the nation, the celebration is going to be rather modest, as cities and towns prepare for a more popular holiday - the Victory Day (May 9th). Unlike the "Spring and Labour" day, it has a cleared philosophy and is much more revered by Russians, who use the occasion to remember those who died fighting in the World War II, and to praise the still surviving veterans.
Alexander Popov
Photo: ITAR-TASS
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