Protesters Are Back To Re-Occupy Detroit On 'May Day'

DETROIT (WWJ) - Occupy Detroit is coming out of hibernation with plans to set up camp once again where they were until late last year.

WWJ's Ron Dewey reports that it's all part of "May Day" activities around the country where people are being called on to not show up at work and school in a demonstration of a day without the "99 percent."

Occupy Detroit protesters are using the day to mark their return to the city, with rallies and marches that begin in southwest Detroit. Along the way, they'll be joined by unions and other groups to show their support of workers and democracy.

Detroit May Day Coalition organizer Michael Shallal said the rally begins at noon at Clark Park.

"We will end at Grand Circus Park, which is where Occupy Detroit had its encampment last fall, where we will have a celebration with speakers, music, food, a celebration of the 99 percent," said Shallal.

At that point, protesters plan to set-up camp and re-occupy the park overnight. Shallal said the event is a solidarity celebration of what he calls the "99 percent" of Americans, encompassing all walks of life.

"The Detroit May Day Coalition is made up of social justice groups ranging from jobs, environment, anti-war, anti-foreclosures, immigrant rights, so all these different organizations came together to organize the march on May 1," said Shallal.

If you plan to join the march, here's where they'll be stopping:

12 p.m. - Assemble at Clark Park

1 p.m. - Rally at Maybury School

March to Michigan Train Depot

2 p.m. - Rally at Train Depot

March to Federal Building

3:15 p.m. - Rally at Federal Building

March to Rosa Parks Transit Center

4 p.m. - Rally at Transit Center

March to Grand Circus Park

4:30 p.m. - Begin to assemble at Grand Circus Park

Rally, picnic, music, food, tables - celebration of May Day

6:30 p.m. - Occupy Detroit General Assembly