Istanbul - The Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey (DİSK) placed a flower wreath in front of the Republic Monument at Istanbul’s Taksim Square on Thursday morning to mark the International Workers Day despite the police blockade.

A delegation consisting of members of the confederation, including DİSK Chair Arzu Çerkezoğlu, came together in front of the Consulate General of Germany held a march by chanting slogans such as “Long Live May Day”. After the march, the members of the delegation placed a flower wreath in front of the monument.

‘Taksim Square is the square of May Day’

Arzu Çerkezoğlu made a speech there, calling on everyone to attend the rally to be held in Istanbul’s Kadıköy district. “Today is May Day, the day of struggle and solidarity of the workers. As the DİSK Board of Directors, we are here to place our wreath. Taksim Square is the square of May Day. Workers and laborers all over the world determine a place to celebrate their day; however, we have not been allowed to celebrate our day at the Taksim Square for years. We will liberate Taksim Square.”

Demand for peace, justice

Arzu Çerkezoğlu emphasized that they would voice the demand of society for peace and justice on May Day. “All workers, laborers, women and young people across Türkiye will flock to the streets on May Day. May Day will prevail, justice will prevail and we will prevail together. When we prevail, democracy and justice will prevail.”