On March 15, 2024, businesses and schools across the Bay Area will participate in a “National Day of Action.” This initiative calls for individuals to refrain from shopping, attending school, or going to work in solidarity with protesters in Minnesota. The event arises following the tragic shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, by federal agents in Minneapolis last weekend.
In Menlo Park, community members gathered on the evening of March 14 to honor Pretti’s memory. Among those present was Josh Zeier, a resident of San Francisco, who expressed the profound impact of Pretti’s death. “I don’t think I’ve ever cried so much over someone I never met,” Zeier said, emphasizing the need to honor Pretti’s legacy and the values held by healthcare workers dedicated to serving veterans.
Support for the National Day of Action spans various organizations, including Veterans for Peace and the local chapter of a government employees union, as well as groups like Raging Grannies. Many federal workers, unable to strike, are using this platform to voice their concerns. The demonstration highlights a growing movement among employees in the public sector, who feel compelled to act in light of violence against their colleagues.
Several small businesses, including Arizmendi Bakery in Oakland, have opted to close their doors in support of the day’s activities. Owner Adrien Sanderson stated, “These small inconveniences were so insignificant to what is actually happening in the country,” reflecting the sentiment of many who believe that solidarity is essential in these times.
The demonstration not only serves to remember Pretti but also aims to raise awareness about systemic issues affecting public servants and the communities they serve. One organizer noted that events like these inspire hope and showcase the best of humanity, especially when faced with adversity.
This National Day of Action is positioned as a pivotal moment for many, representing a collective stand against violence and a commitment to social justice. As members of the community rally together, they are sending a powerful message that the lives of public servants, like Alex Pretti, matter deeply.
