Downtown Minneapolis streets blocked by labor protest

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5th Avenue going toward Washington Avenue. Photo submitted by Devon Bates.

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - Dozens of community members, marching in solidarity with janitors and public school teachers, blocked streets in downtown Minneapolis during the Thursday morning commute. The blockage caused miles of backups on highways near downtown exits.

Who is protesting?

Community members organized by Minnesotans for a Fair Economy. The group said Thursday’s demonstration was “inspired by” the following labor unions and organizations:

SEIU Local 26 janitors, who held a one-day strike on Wednesday.

The St. Paul Federation of Teachers, who held a Wednesday morning “walk-in” demonstration for better working conditions.

Neighborhoods Organizing for Change, which is calling on temp agencies that hire Target Field staff to “end wage theft and predatory hiring practices.”

Retail janitors organizing with the Centro de Trabajadores Unidos en Lucha who went on strike Thursday for fair wages and better working conditions.