Workers' Day

May Day in Istanbul is unlike anywhere else. The annual attempt by unions and activists to reach Taksim Square — a symbolically charged site since the 1977 massacre — is met with heavy police presence, water cannons, and tear gas.

This series captures the clash between demonstrators and security forces across Istanbul’s streets. Beyond the confrontation, the images reveal the resilience of workers and activists who return year after year to assert their right to the square and to be heard.