Twin Cities workers strike on May Day for higher wages and fair benefits
Workers across the Twin Cities took to the streets on May Day to demand higher wages and improved benefits. Rallies, picket lines, and protests were held outside hotels, hospitals, and government buildings as employees pushed for fairer pay and working conditions. Hospitality staff at Hotel Ivy in downtown Minneapolis staged a one-day walkout. Cleaners, front desk workers, and other employees left their posts to join picket lines organised by AFSCME Local 17. Their demands include a $3 hourly wage increase, with a minimum of $2.50, and five paid sick days per year.
Hotel worker David McAnn stressed that staff are vital to daily operations but struggle with low pay. Meanwhile, at the Normandy Inn, another group of workers gathered to make similar calls for better wages and benefits. Protesters also marched to the Hennepin County Government Center, where AFSCME union members continued their push for change. Wade Luneburg of Unite Local 17 highlighted the need for wage growth to match rising inflation. Hospital worker Nina Ross echoed these concerns, adding that immigration policies under ICE remain a pressing issue for many. The demonstrations come as part of broader May Day actions, blending calls for economic justice with demands for immigration reform.
The protests saw workers from multiple industries unite in their demands. Employers now face growing pressure to address wage stagnation and improve benefits. With picket lines active and rallies ongoing, organisers have made clear that the fight for fairer conditions will continue.
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