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Today is the first of May, an important day for me in two very different ways!
For my Pagan side, tis all about Beltane -- celebrating Spring and rebirth and lust and sex and all those other wonderful things!
For my Anarchist side, tis Mayday, commemorating the noble Haymarket Anarchists who were put to death by the State of Illinois for demonstrating in favour of the eight hour workday.[*]
Traditionally, I have often been split on how to celebrate. In 2002, I remember being assaulted by the Tempe police in Arizona; indeed, I still have their on video at the Event Horizon! In 2004 and 2005, I celebrated in various ways, including with the IWW's annual picnic at the Martyr's Monument near Chicago. In 2006, I spent the long weekend at an Anarchist conference in London, culminating in a Mayday march. Whereas in 2007, 2008, and 2009 I mainly focused on the more Paganesque celebrations reflected in the Oxford May Morning.
Of course, this year my choice is simply: (c) None of the above, as I am holed up in the quiet little village up Mozumi, high in the Japanese Alps. Still, Spring is definitely here -- as can be evidenced by the weather and the green everywhere. Don't believe me? Take a look at this picture that I shot on Friday and see for yourself!
[*] That's right! Any of you like working only eight hours per day? You have Anarchists to thank for it!
For my Pagan side, tis all about Beltane -- celebrating Spring and rebirth and lust and sex and all those other wonderful things!
For my Anarchist side, tis Mayday, commemorating the noble Haymarket Anarchists who were put to death by the State of Illinois for demonstrating in favour of the eight hour workday.[*]
Traditionally, I have often been split on how to celebrate. In 2002, I remember being assaulted by the Tempe police in Arizona; indeed, I still have their on video at the Event Horizon! In 2004 and 2005, I celebrated in various ways, including with the IWW's annual picnic at the Martyr's Monument near Chicago. In 2006, I spent the long weekend at an Anarchist conference in London, culminating in a Mayday march. Whereas in 2007, 2008, and 2009 I mainly focused on the more Paganesque celebrations reflected in the Oxford May Morning.
Of course, this year my choice is simply: (c) None of the above, as I am holed up in the quiet little village up Mozumi, high in the Japanese Alps. Still, Spring is definitely here -- as can be evidenced by the weather and the green everywhere. Don't believe me? Take a look at this picture that I shot on Friday and see for yourself!
[*] That's right! Any of you like working only eight hours per day? You have Anarchists to thank for it!
