The Land Stewardship Project knows that immigrants are an important part of our farm economy, and have been throughout history. That’s why we’re inviting you to join LSP and the Immigrant Defense Network this week at one of four powerful teach-in opportunities in the Minnesota towns of Montevideo, Minneapolis, Mankato, and Rochester.

We will learn about the origins of International Workers’ Day (often referred to as May Day), the 1886 Chicago protests, and how the struggle continues today for immigrant workers across Minnesota. Then, take action with us to change the narrative.

👉 We’ll assemble May Day “Worker Defense” baskets filled with resources, reports, and tools for worker protection.

👉 Gain talking points to explain why immigrants are essential to industries like agriculture, food processing, and other sectors.

💪 Together, we’ll encourage employers and companies to acknowledge the real impact of enforcement actions and take steps to protect our community.

Everyone is welcome, registration is not required for these events.

📍 Montevideo May Day Teach-In

Wednesday, April 30
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Land Stewardship Project office
111 North First Street, Montevideo, MN 56265
(with basket assembly at Java River starting at 6:15 P.M.)

📍 Minneapolis May Day Teach-In

Wednesday, April 30
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Centro de Trabajadores Primero de Mayo
3521 E. Lake St. Minneapolis, MN 55406
Dinner provided.

📍 Rochester May Day Teach-In

Wednesday, April 30
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
1210 ½ 7th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Dinner provided.

📍 Mankato May Day Teach-In

Thursday, May 1
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Shared Spaces
127 S. 2nd St., #100 Mankato, MN 56001
Breakfast provided.

Who is the Immigrant Defense Network & Why is LSP Involved?

Last November, more than 90 Minnesota groups formed the Immigrant Defense Network (IDN) aimed at protecting the rights of immigrants, empowering immigrant communities, and ensuring accurate information was being circulated in those communities. The Land Stewardship Project is a member of that coalition, including co-facilitating the Greater Minnesota caucus of the IDN.

As a farm and rural centered organization, we recognize that we all depend upon immigrants’ contributions to a robust food and agriculture economy in this country. And we know we will not have a sustainable farm and food system until it is sustainable for everyone.

Additional LSP Resources:

LSP Community Care Resource Page
LSP has developed a resource page for immigrants, allies, farmers, and institutions. On that page, you’ll also find fact sheets on issues such as the contributions immigrants make to the U.S. economy. If you know of a resource you think should be included on this page, let us know.

Want to Get Involved?
Now is the time to get involved in supporting our neighbors and community members. If you are Interested in additional resources and ways to show up sign up for LSP’s racial justice hotlist to stay connected to this and other aspects of our work.

If you want to get more involved with LSP and the Immigrant Defense Network, or have questions about these May Day focused events, please follow up with me via e-mail.

Nick Olson is an LSP Farm Beginnings organizer.