Communist and socialist groups called for a 'revolution' and the seizure of private property at a May Day rally in Minneapolis on Friday. The event, which drew over 1,000 people, was organized as an immigrant rights demonstration but also included labor unions, activist organizations, and far-left political groups. Among the groups present were the Communist Party USA, the Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO), the Revolutionary Communists of America (RCA), the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL), and members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).
Protesters outlined demands including rent caps tied to income, a reduced workweek, and the redistribution of wealth from billionaires. Demonstrators carried signs reading 'F--k ICE,' 'Abolish ICE,' 'Fight Trump’s Agenda,' 'No Kings,' and 'Stop the War,' while others waved red flags associated with the Communist Party USA and held banners featuring the hammer and sickle. Members of the Communist Party USA handed out newspapers and leaflets, including a publication titled The Communist with the headline 'Down with Trump’s War!'
The rally marked a shift in tone from past May Day events, which traditionally focused on labor issues. Some demonstrators denounced capitalism and pushed for the seizure of private property and the means of production. The event highlighted the growing influence of far-left organizations at an event traditionally centered on workers’ rights.