This Labor Day, Richmond isn’t just taking a day off, it’s taking to the streets. On Monday, September 1 at 4:30 PM in Monroe Park, the 50501 Movement and Virginia 50501 will lead a Rally, Protest, and March under the theme: “Workers Over Billionaires.”
The gathering is part of a nationwide push to reclaim Labor Day as a day of struggle, not just leisure, bringing attention back to the rights of working people. Organizers are demanding investment in people and communities, not wars and billionaire profits.
What They’re Fighting For
50501 Virginia has outlined a set of priorities for this action, including:
- Stopping the billionaire takeover and corruption of the Trump administration.
- Protecting and expanding Medicaid, Social Security, and other programs for working people.
- Fully funding schools, healthcare, and housing.
- Ending attacks on immigrants, Black, Indigenous, and trans communities.
- Refocusing national priorities on human needs, not endless war.
The message is simple: working people should not be sacrificed for corporate profits.
RVA Mag & the 50501 Movement
RVA Magazine has been covering the 50501 Movement since the beginning, documenting how Richmond has consistently shown up as part of this decentralized, grassroots campaign for democracy, equality, and justice.
From the nationwide day of protest on February 5th link, to the March 4th defense of women’s rights link, and the Presidents Day protest at Capitol Square link, Richmond has been part of the story.
We’ve also covered the “No Kings Day” protest against executive overreach link, and the John Lewis anniversary action that turned Monument Avenue into a living chain of “good trouble” link.
Why Labor Day Matters
Labor Day was created out of hard-fought worker struggles in the late 19th century with strikes, protests, and organizing that demanded better wages, shorter hours, and safer conditions. Over time, the holiday has been softened into parades and cookouts, but the roots remain radical.
50501’s rally at Monroe Park is a call to return to those roots: to see Labor Day not as the end of summer, but as a chance to stand up for the people who make the country run and to remind billionaires and politicians that workers cannot be ignored.
Event Details
📍 Monroe Park, Richmond, VA
🕟 4:30 PM, Monday, September 1
👉 More info: 50501VA.com
Photo by Ben Lahoussine
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