What Labor Day used to look like: The parades in the then Titograd were particularly impressive

Times have changed, but memories of May Day remain deeply etched in the minds of those who remember it from a different time. Pensioners from the Home for the Elderly in Podgorica, Sonja Asanović and Milorad Radulović, told Boje jutra on Television Vijesti what Labor Day used to look like, recalling the atmosphere that, as they say, was unrepeatable.

"It was truly a holiday and it meant a lot. Not only for workers in the city, but also for people in the countryside. The youth prepared for days, fires were lit on the hills, and people came out to watch," Radulović recalls.

The May Day parades in Titograd at the time were particularly memorable. Columns of workers, trucks, banners and songs – everything, he says, had its own symbolism.

"Trucks were driving through the streets, workers in coats 'working' on them as if in a factory, and behind them were masses of people with flags and songs. The city was full, the square was packed, not a pin could drop," says Radulović.

For Sonja Asanović, May Day was a holiday of togetherness and respect.

"For our generation, it was the most beautiful holiday – full of joy, song and love between people. The worker was the center of attention. We respected each other and built this city together," said Asanović.

He adds that culture and education developed in parallel at that time.

"Factories were built, as well as schools, theaters, exhibitions and literary evenings were organized. Workers had the opportunity to improve their skills and progress," said Asanović.

After the official celebrations, the celebration continued in nature.

"On May 2nd, excursions were organized - Mareza, Vrela Ribnička... There were cars, music, laughter," says Radulović, with an anecdote that still makes us smile today: "We knew how to 'argue' two musicians just so they could play better - and then we would all laugh."

However, they agree that today's celebration is different.

"Today, there's no socializing. Everyone sits, looks at their phones, and there's little conversation. You used to be ready to do anything for your friends," says Radulović.

Asanović adds that, although times have brought more freedom, the spirit of community is missing.

"I mean, friendship was sworn at that time. Friend, comrade, you were willing to die for that friend. Honesty and then love. Some walks lasted until 20 p.m. You're not allowed after 18 p.m. Then the family would watch what romantic movie was. Don't even watch that movie. It's not for you. I'm glad that it's been released now. That some things have changed. I lived through it, I held it back. I couldn't do anything in my life, what I wanted. You shouldn't go to folklore at 16-17. Then, I want literature and high school, it's not possible. You go to an economic school. You want this, it's not possible. There were always certain customs. And then, I say congratulations to these younger people for knowing their path, but I agree with Milorad, that they shouldn't go down the wrong path but rather find the best path for themselves and fight for it," said Asanović.

She reminds young people not to lose hope.

"I think young people give up quickly, and we were fighters. We didn't have this many opportunities, techniques and everything, but we somehow made it on our own. We learned step by step and never said I don't know and I can't, but we kept going," adds Asanović.

Their message is simple - more socializing and less distance.

"Let them gather, talk, get to know each other. The promenade used to be a place of meeting and life. Today, that's gone, and that's a shame," Radulović concludes.

And while times change, one thing remains the same – May Day still carries stories, we just need to hear them.