The Twin Cities branch of the Democratic Socialists of America is urging workers in Minnesota to utilize their “safe sick time” to join protests against ICE this Friday.
In a recent statement, they mentioned, “Even without oppressive ICE agents on the streets, taking time off can still be tough.” The group is emphasizing the importance of organizing workplaces for the upcoming strike on January 23, telling workers to stand firm against non-union management or to educate their bosses on the necessity of closing for the day.
Following a recent incident, where ICE was involved in the death of Renee Good, there have been growing protests against the agency. The call for actions on Friday aligns with this heightened scrutiny. The Democratic Socialists emphasize that this fight is against what they see as a military occupation targeting the working class, asserting that workers hold the power to disrupt economies through collective action. “When we stop working, everything halts. It’s about community, conscience, and resistance to injustice,” their post reads.
The Democratic Socialists have also provided links to resources about Minnesota’s “Earning Sick and Safe Time” policy, noting that if someone misses just one day of work, there’s no documentation required from the employer explaining the absence.
Furthermore, a slide shared encourages individuals to take mental health days using their safe sick time and suggests that workers approach sympathetic employers about closing for the day. They argue that the current administration’s actions have negative consequences for business and the community.
However, the situation is delicate. A member of an involved group, Ice Out of Twin Ports, suggested the need for white allies to intervene against police brutality toward Black individuals, while also endorsing protest tactics that raise concerns about safety and legality, including resisting police actions directly.
Despite these tactics being shared, it’s vital to recognize the calls for safety and solidarity among protestors. The Twin Cities Democratic Socialists and Ice Out of Twin Ports have been approached for additional comment regarding their actions and strategies.
