The International Labor Day on May 1st was marked this year in the United States as A Day Without Immigrants. In Lawrence, groups organized by Cosecha gathered at the Campagnone Common with cultural displays, music and fun. At noon, they began marching on the streets through Essex and Common, ending at the Common again.
There was representation from groups and churches from other cities that were bussed here with their banners and drums chanting.
Police Chief James Fitzpatrick estimated around 350 participants which was very disappointing for the organizers. Because they expected many more, Chief Fitzpatrick called NEMLEC (The Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council) for assistance and that was the reason for so many officers from surrounding cities and towns to be present. There were no arrests and it was done peacefully.
