NYC teachers' union plans 'solidarity' march for Minneapolis, demands ICE agents leave city

Members of New York City’s most influential teachers' union plan to wear black on Friday and march against ICE in “solidarity’ with Minneapolis after an ICE agent shot left-wing activist Renee Good when she drove a car into him.

The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) called on teachers, school employees, and local supporters to take part in a nationwide Day of Action opposing federal immigration enforcement that the union claims is “targeting” students, educators, and immigrant communities near schools, citing escalating unrest in the Twin Cities in a statement.

“The UFT will call for an emergency demonstration and day of action here in New York, in solidarity with our fellow unionists and with students, faculty, staff, and immigrant communities in Minnesota on Friday, January 23rd,” the union said.

Teachers are being asked to dress in black throughout the school day as a visible sign of “solidarity” with their Minneapolis counterparts, where Good was working as a substitute teacher before being shot.

Participants are also encouraged to gather for photos and share them on social media. On Thursday night, the UFT circulated a text alert reminding members of the action, according to the New York Post.

“Remember to wear black tomorrow, Jan. 23, in solidarity with union members in Minneapolis,” read the message sent to a Bronx-based teacher. After classes end, members are invited to head outdoors and participate in the “Stand with Minneapolis March” alongside unions from across New York City, the release said.

Union leaders said the march will begin at 4:30 pm, assembling at the north end of Union Square before moving toward Bryant Park. They also urged members to add their names to a petition from Minnesota teachers calling on ICE to “stay out of Minnesota schools.”

Since the shooting of Good, Minneapolis has been thrown into chaos with unrest, anti-ICE agitators, and other demonstrations. Federal officials have sent thousands of additional ICE officers into the area through the Department of Homeland Security in response.