May 2009

Karen Fugle, 2009-04-30 22:22:59

Mayday - an (anti-capitalist) festival against work, want and denial, and a vision of freedom and plenty throughout the world. Or a celebration of the achievements of the labour movement. This year we all want work, are all in denial, and freedom and plenty appear to be somewhat reigned in, at least in talk.

There is no denying that throughout the world, action by the labour movement has led to many reforms and workers' rights, such as the 2-day weekend, minimum wage, paid holidays, the eight-hour day and an end to child labour (well, sort of). Hoorah.

Equally though these times might make some of us look rather wearily at the inequalities of wealth. In times of economic unrest does the support of Anarchism / fascism / communism / socialism (ism, ism, ism) grow? Do architects stop designing and start politicising? Does the debate then fuel better social architecture?

Anyway, before I have Karl Sharro on my case (disconcerting with a pint glass in hand) and in a haze of work, I am booking holidays. Before they approach like a silent thief and depart like the bus you just missed. Here I come Paris for a weekend on the tiles. Hello camping on some farmers land at a summer music festival, hello to a friend’s couch in south (souf) London I haven't seen in too long. And if the swine haven't got us...or them...hello to Kansas where EYC join our comrades for the Mid-continent MicroStation Community Conference and host our first ever US CAD Managers Forum.

Anarchist or capitalist - this year I'm on the fence. Just hope it’s not a pig fence.