Clergy and faith leaders are calling for a statewide day of action on January 23, urging Minnesotans to refrain from work, school, and shopping.
A Day of Truth and Freedom
Organizers are framing January 23 as a “Day of Truth and Freedom,” and are asking employers to grant employees the day off for reflection or community involvement. A rally and march are planned for 2 p.m. at The Commons in downtown Minneapolis.
The call to action extends beyond simply staying home. Organizers are also encouraging a boycott of shopping to pressure large corporations. JaNaé Bates Imari, co-executive director of ISAIAH and Faith in Minnesota, stated, “The ones who have been silent, the silence has been deafening.”
Corporate Response
Bates Imari specifically named Target, General Mills, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group as companies that have remained largely silent. KARE 11 reported reaching out to these companies for comment but has not yet received a response.
Imam Asad Zaman of the Muslim American Society of Minnesota urged corporations to “pick a side,” advocating for them to support their customers and employees. He stated that he no longer feels safe shopping at Target, and characterized January 23 as a consequence of corporate silence and actions by federal agents that have caused “fear and injuries” in Minnesota.
Reverend Jinzu Minna Jain of Clouds in Water Zen Center emphasized the impact of disrupting resources, stating, “It has an impact, and it is really visible, and I think that matters.” Betzi Sherman, also with Clouds in Water Zen Center, described the effort as a “direct action” intended to remind people of their collective power.
Several restaurants are also reportedly closing in solidarity with the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of January 23?
Clergy and faith leaders are calling January 23 a “Day of Truth and Freedom,” intended as a day for reflection, protest, and a demonstration of collective power.
Which companies are being specifically called out?
Target, General Mills, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group were specifically named by JaNaé Bates Imari as companies that have been largely silent on issues motivating the day of action.
What actions are being encouraged on January 23?
Organizers are asking Minnesotans to stay home from work and school, avoid shopping, and participate in a rally and march at The Commons in Minneapolis at 2 p.m.
As this movement gains momentum, will we see a shift in corporate engagement with the concerns raised by community and faith leaders?
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