Across the United States, a wave of activism is emerging, inspired by the recent general strike in Minnesota. This movement is a direct response to the harsh immigration policies enforced by the Trump administration. Activists are urging citizens to stay home from work and school, and to avoid spending money in support of the strike.
The call to action is clear: “Every day, ICE, Border Patrol, and other enforcers of Trump’s racist agenda are going into our communities to kidnap our neighbors and sow fear,” states a message from the National Shutdown website. It emphasizes that it’s time to unite for a nationwide shutdown to declare that enough is enough.
The facts
According to reports from Fast Company, numerous businesses from Portland to Los Angeles have chosen to close their doors in solidarity with the strike. In Colorado, various school districts have canceled classes due to participation from both teachers and students. The extent of the national shutdown is still unfolding, but early indications suggest that this movement is gaining traction.
Prominent figures in entertainment, including Ariana Grande and Mark Ruffalo, have utilized their platforms to spread awareness about the ongoing strike. “What’s happening in Minnesota should inspire a larger movement,” remarked actor Edward Norton in a recent interview.
The consequences
The national effort for an economic shutdown was invigorated by a significant strike that occurred in Minnesota, where approximately 700 businesses—including restaurants and museums—closed in support of a protest that drew around 50,000 participants braving freezing temperatures. This event has become a model for activists nationwide, inspiring similar calls for action in other states.
Key organizations such as CodePink, Defend Immigrant Families Campaign, and the North Carolina Poor People’s Campaign have endorsed this initiative. They have formed a decentralized coalition aimed at dismantling oppressive immigration practices. Student organizations at the University of Minnesota have played a pivotal role in this movement, emphasizing that nonviolent economic pressure is crucial for holding federal authorities accountable.
Taking action and supporting mutual aid
In addition to the call for a complete economic shutdown, activists are encouraging individuals to participate in local protests and demonstrations. A recent guide published by Mpls.St.Paul Magazine has compiled a list of mutual aid organizations that are in dire need of donations to assist families impacted by ICE raids. Support extends to rent funds and food assistance for those forced to stay home out of fear of detention.
Among the available resources, the Monarca network offers legal observer training, while Unidos MN provides comprehensive information on rights in various scenarios, such as ICE encounters. The Star Tribune has also compiled essential information detailing the legal boundaries surrounding ICE’s actions, which can empower community members to protect themselves and others.
Support for those affected by ICE activities
For individuals or families struggling with ICE issues, the Minnesota government has established a resource page filled with critical information on rights, legal aid, and health services. For those searching for detained individuals, the Online Detainee Locator System can be a valuable tool.
Local resources, such as Neighborhood House in St. Paul, offer a range of services, from food shelves to housing stability support. Additionally, organizations like Leo’s Tow are stepping in to assist families in retrieving vehicles left behind by those taken by ICE agents.
Ways to contribute even if you can’t strike
The call to action is clear: “Every day, ICE, Border Patrol, and other enforcers of Trump’s racist agenda are going into our communities to kidnap our neighbors and sow fear,” states a message from the National Shutdown website. It emphasizes that it’s time to unite for a nationwide shutdown to declare that enough is enough.0
The call to action is clear: “Every day, ICE, Border Patrol, and other enforcers of Trump’s racist agenda are going into our communities to kidnap our neighbors and sow fear,” states a message from the National Shutdown website. It emphasizes that it’s time to unite for a nationwide shutdown to declare that enough is enough.1