Imagine a day where an entire community pauses—no work, no shopping, no business as usual. That’s exactly what faith leaders across Minnesota are calling for on January 23, and it’s sparking conversations that go far beyond a single day of protest. Dubbed the Day of Truth and Freedom, this movement is urging Minnesotans to step back, reflect, and demand accountability from those in power. But here’s where it gets controversial: they’re specifically targeting big corporations, accusing them of staying silent on critical issues affecting the community. And this is the part most people miss: Minnesota is home to some of the highest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies per capita in the U.S., yet leaders like JaNaé Bates Imari, co-executive director of ISAIAH and Faith in Minnesota, argue their silence has been ‘deafening.’
‘We’re asking all Minnesotans to stay home, protest peacefully, or join us in downtown Minneapolis at The Commons for a rally and march at 2 p.m.,’ Bates Imari explained. She didn’t hold back, calling out corporate giants like Target, General Mills, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group for their lack of response to community concerns. When KARE 11 reached out to these companies for comment, they were met with silence—a silence that faith leaders argue speaks volumes.
Imam Asad Zaman of the Muslim American Society of Minnesota put it bluntly: ‘Corporations need to pick a side—the side of their customers, the side of their employees.’ He shared a personal shift, revealing he no longer shops at Target because he doesn’t feel safe, tying this directly to the fear and harm caused by federal agents in the state. ‘This injustice is unfair,’ he declared, emphasizing that January 23 is a direct response to corporate inaction.
Reverend Jinzu Minna Jain of the Clouds in Water Zen Center added a powerful perspective: ‘Interrupting the flow of resources to those in power sends a visible, impactful message.’ They highlighted the historical role of clergy in leading change, refusing to back down in the face of injustice. ‘Minnesota is exhausted,’ Minna Jain said, capturing the collective fatigue many feel.
Betzi Sherman, also with the Clouds in Water Zen Center, framed the day as a direct action rather than a symbolic gesture. ‘This isn’t just about showing up for others—it’s about showing up for ourselves,’ she explained. ‘We hope this reminds people of the collective power we hold.’ Both Sherman and Minna Jain stressed the importance of community presence at the rally, finding rejuvenation in standing together during challenging times.
The movement is gaining traction, with several restaurants even closing for the day in solidarity. But the question remains: Will corporations listen? Or will their silence continue to speak louder than words? What do you think? Is this the right approach to hold corporations accountable, or is there a better way? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is far from over.
