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November 7 as Victims of Communism Day – 2026
The author argues that 7 November should be considered as a day to commemorate victims of communism, as an alternative to 1 May. The date marks the establishment of the first communist regime in Russia and, the author says, avoids potential disagreement with people who associate 1 May with its earlier labour movement traditions.
The author has advocated 1 May since 2007, saying it reflects communism as a global movement, but is open to another date if it gains broader support. They note that 7 November can fall close to US election day, which may distract attention. Citing *The Black Book of Communism*, the article gives an estimated death toll of 80 to 100 million and argues that commemorating victims could also help reduce the risk of future atrocities.
In short
- The author proposes 7 November as an alternative date to remember communism’s victims.
- The date marks the creation of the first communist regime in Russia.
- The article cites an estimate of 80 to 100 million deaths.
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The case for
A dedicated day on 7 November could recognise people harmed under communist regimes and draw attention to the historical consequences of revolutionary states. The date marks the establishment of the first communist regime, giving the commemoration a clear historical link; choosing it over 1 May may also avoid clashing with that date’s labour movement associations.
The case against
Commemorating victims is important, but 7 November may be a divisive or distracting choice, particularly when it falls near US election day. Retaining 1 May could better reflect communism’s history as a global movement, while a broader or less politically charged date might allow more people to take part without implying that labour movement traditions are being displaced.