A Fray at May Day

I stood beside my comrades, and held my banner proud,
While my good comrade Nina, standing straight ahead, flew the Iranian flag.
In less than a moment, and more than an instant,
We were beset, by an unexpected threat, people upset by our support of Iran, there was no plan, no method to the madness,
as these people surged, urged on by their words, they got aggressive, and their anger oppressive, as they tore up Nina’s flag.
It became a shouting match, as crowds pushed from all sides, caught in the middle, trying to protect our side,
As the police rushed in, comrade Georgie sighed, “looks like I’ll not be at work on Tuesday”,
I agreed, I’d seen it all before, they usually come for us, as we’re on the wrong side of the law.
I was pleasantly surprised however, when our attackers were dragged away, we could still march on this day,
And fly our bold red banners, adorned with sickles and with hammers, these streets were built by the workers, and one day we’ll reclaim them.

By Helen Astin-Hardman