May Day Film Festival

Welcome to May Day Film Festival, a cinematic celebration of International Workers’ Day. ‘May Day’ emerged out of the trade union and labour movements of the 19th century. On 1st May 1886, a federation of trade unions in the United States began a general strike for better working conditions and an eight-hour workday. In Chicago, the strike was suppressed by the police leading to a deadly riot, in which several were killed and hundreds injured. This became known as the ‘Haymarket massacre’, traditionally commemorated on 1st May.

Today, trade unions are important not only for representing and protecting the rights and interests of its members, but as organisations capable of mobilising to push for equality, social justice and peace, at a time when these values are under attack. At a time when society is increasingly individualist and atomised, trade unions stand for traditions of collectivity, solidarity and mutual support.

The films and talks showcase the strength and breadth of the workers movement; highlighting the enduring legacy of James Connolly, proud histories of international solidarity, connections with the Irish language, and lessons we can learn from past struggles – including Dolly Parton and her colleagues’ memorable struggle against a sexist boss in the iconic 9 to 5.

This is a decisive moment for working people, with a cost of living crisis making it harder and harder to get by, worsening homelessness, rising inequality and the rise of a dangerous far-right politics which pushes fear and hatred. We hope you will join us this weekend for something more hopeful and inspiring, a reminder of the strength we have when we come together.

PROGRAMME*

FRIDAY 01 MAY 

18:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Welcome Reception
Please join us as we kick off the festivities with drinks and a few small bites!

19:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening
We Only Want the Earth: the Life and Ideas of James Connolly
(Alan Giselnan, 2025, 88’)
Followed by discussion with director Alan Giselnan and Des Geraghty

*  *  *

SATURDAY 02 MAY 

11:00 | Áras na nGael
Workshop: The Future of Work: Zine Making with Stray Cat Press
Imagine your dream work life while crafting your own little books at a DIY zine workshop

12:15 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening: 406 Days – The Debenhams Picket Line
(Joe Lee, 2023, 90’)
Followed by discussion with Director Joe Lee and Producer Fergus Dowd

14:45 | Áras na nGael
Talk: Ceardchumannaí agus an ghaeilge (The Labour Movement and the Irish Language)
Talk and discussion with historian Aindrias Ó Cathasaigh

16:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening and Talk: Films on the Labour Movement
Rod Stoneman presents a selection of short extracts exploring independent film production and collective struggles

18:00 | Áras na nGael
Talk: Art Strike! Organising the Cultural Sector
A panel discussion on the challenges facing creatives today with Praxis, Irish Writers Union and Equity UK

19:30 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening: Blood Fruit
(Sinead O’Brien, 2014, 76’)

21:00 | Club Áras na nGael
Worker’s Party: Live Music and Good Craic

*  *  *

SUNDAY 03 MAY 

11:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening: Workers Leaving the Factory
(Harun Farocki, 1995, 36’)

12:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening: The Island of Flowers
(Jorge Furtado, 1990, 13’)
Presented by Brazil on Screen, the short film will be played on loop for 1h

13:00 | Áras na nGael
Cairde Physical Training Session
A healthy body is a vital tool for a strong workers movement! Join us for a community exercise class with Cairde Community Training

15:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Film Screening: The Rent Strike, The Story of Ireland’s Housing Rebellion
(Azzy O’Connor, Dr Fiadh Tubridy, Declan Mallon, 2024, 45’)

18:00 | Nuns Island Theatre
Closing Film: 9 to 5
(Colin Higgins, 1980, 110’)

*For extended event details see @galwaymaydayfilmfest on socials

Booking & Accessibiity
All screenings and events are free to attend. If you have specific requirements, please email galwaymaydayfilmfest@gmail.com in advance. Venues are fully wheelchair accessible and operate as a relaxed event; you are welcome to come and go during the screenings as needed. For more information, contact galwaymaydayfilmfest@gmail.com.

Supporters
FORSA / CATU / Praxis / Siptu / Irish Congress of Trade Unions / Brazil on Screen / Mandate Trade Union

Image: Members of the Irish Women’s Workers’ Union on the steps of Liberty Hall, c. 1914
The Union was founded in 1911