Protests have erupted across the United States following the recent fatal shootings of two individuals, prompting a nationwide immigration strike on January 30, 2024. Medium, an online publishing company based in San Francisco, is supporting its employees in participating in the strike by allowing them to take the day off. CEO Tony Stubblebine communicated this decision through the company’s Slack channel, emphasizing the importance of collective action in the face of social injustice.
Stubblebine’s message reflected a deep personal engagement with the ongoing situation in Minnesota, where protests have intensified after the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good by immigration officers. He expressed both concern and hope, stating that it is uplifting to witness people uniting to advocate for change. Stubblebine asserted, “our business thrives when the country thrives,” highlighting the interconnectedness between social issues and business health.
In his communication, Stubblebine clarified that participation in the strike is voluntary. Employees are encouraged to take as much time off as they need to engage in the protest activities without fear of reprisal. This stance marks a significant alignment with the sentiments of many in the community who are calling for an economic blackout day, urging Americans to abstain from work, school, and shopping in support of the cause.
Alongside allowing employees to participate, Medium plans to publish content related to the strike in its newsletter. This includes practical guides to navigating police encounters during protests, which aims to provide support and safety information to those joining the demonstrations.
The call for the strike has gained traction through the support of various activists, unions, and public figures. Celebrities such as Pedro Pascal, Ariana Grande, and Jamie Lee Curtis have used their platforms to amplify the message of the protest, encouraging widespread participation. The movement seeks to drive home the demand for the removal of ICE officers from cities across the nation.
In addition to the grassroots efforts, a coalition of over 60 executives from Minnesota-based companies, including major brands like Target and Cargill, released an open letter advocating for peaceful resolutions and de-escalation regarding immigration enforcement. This unified stance across industries signals a growing concern about the social implications of immigration policies and the need for corporate responsibility in addressing these issues.
As the nation prepares for the strike, the momentum continues to build, with many hoping that this collective effort will contribute to meaningful change in immigration policies and practices. The events of January 30 will likely resonate far beyond the day itself, as communities unite to demand justice and accountability.
