AFT’s Weingarten Responds to DOJ Indictments in Minnesota

WASHINGTON—AFT President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement after the Department of Justice indicted 15 individuals, including at least one educator and union member, following U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s deadly Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis:

“Freedom of speech and the right to peacefully protest are cornerstones of American society. These rights are not privileges bestowed by those in power—they are fundamental freedoms etched into our Constitution that allow people to challenge injustice, hold their leaders accountable and make their voices heard.

“Today, the Trump administration is trying to criminalize those who speak up for their neighbors—trashing civil liberties, transparency and accountability—and then pepper spraying those who dare to call them out. And while it hands out paper-thin indictments to protesters, it has failed to indict or even investigate the ICE agents who murdered Renée Good and Alex Pretti in cold blood.

“Minnesotans have proven that they are resilient in the face of adversity. They stand in solidarity and provide mutual aid and compassion because they cherish an America where people can organize and advocate for change without fear of retribution. 

“We stand with them in this tumultuous moment and will continue to remain vigilant in defending our 250-year-old freedoms—not just for one group or one cause, but for all.”