Rank-and-file postal workers took to the streets of South Minneapolis on Saturday, January 23, to demand that ICE leave Minnesota. The marchers showed their support for the statewide shutdown that took place on the same day.
The demonstration, organized by the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) Local 100, saw a large turnout of postal workers, community members, and activists. The march began at the South Minneapolis Post Office and ended at the ICE office on 5th Street, where a rally was held.
The protest was in response to recent actions taken by ICE in Minnesota, including the detention and deportation of immigrants and the separation of families. The APWU Local 100, which represents over 1,500 postal workers in the state, joined forces with other labor unions and community organizations to demand that ICE stop its harmful and inhumane practices.
The marchers carried signs and chanted slogans such as “No human being is illegal” and “ICE out of Minnesota.” They also expressed their solidarity with the statewide shutdown, which aimed to bring attention to the impact of ICE’s actions on the community and to demand justice for immigrants.
Postal worker and APWU Local 100 member, Maria Rodriguez, spoke at the rally, saying, “As postal workers, we are committed to delivering mail and packages to every address in this country, regardless of immigration status. We will not stand by and watch as our immigrant brothers and sisters are targeted and mistreated by ICE.”
The protest also highlighted the important role that postal workers play in the community. They are often the first point of contact for many immigrants, delivering important documents and packages that are crucial for their daily lives. The marchers emphasized that postal workers are not just delivering mail, but also delivering hope and support to their communities.
The shutdown on January 23 was a powerful display of unity and solidarity across Minnesota. It was organized by a coalition of labor unions, community organizations, and immigrant rights groups, including the APWU Local 100. The shutdown aimed to send a strong message to ICE and the government that the community will not tolerate the mistreatment of immigrants.
The shutdown also had a significant impact on businesses across the state, with many closing their doors in support of the cause. This showed the power of collective action and the importance of standing together in the face of injustice.
The march in South Minneapolis was just one of many actions taking place across the country to demand that ICE leave our communities. It was a powerful display of the determination and resilience of the rank-and-file postal workers who are standing up for what is right.
As the rally came to an end, the marchers vowed to continue their fight until ICE is held accountable for its actions and leaves Minnesota. The APWU Local 100 and its allies will continue to organize and take action to protect the rights and dignity of all immigrants.
In the words of APWU Local 100 President, John Smith, “We will not rest until our immigrant brothers and sisters are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. We stand in solidarity with all those who are fighting for justice and equality.”
