The Florida AFL-CIO led rallies across the state today to ask local leaders to stand up for economic and racial justice. In Tallahassee, participants circled the Capitol in cars, honking to show support of the movement.
Cars fill the Macy's Parking lot at the Governor's Square Mall. Drivers get out to tape signs on their windows. Some read, "Workers First Caravan," while others say, "Union Members for Black Lives." Danielle Thomas has both on her car. She says the two movements work together.
"Neither one of these issues [is] new, whether it be black lives matter or the labor movement. Neither one is new, but we're definitely at a pressure point in this country, and it seems like it's the perfect time to show people that both of these movements can work hand in hand," Thomas says.
In the same parking lot, Judy Hall asks a fellow caravaner to draw "unity" on her car with erasable markers. Hall says she supports unity between white and black people, unions, workers, congress, and business CEOs:
"To get equal treatment of everybody, to get healthcare, to get work for everyone," Hall says.
The Florida AFL-CIO organized the caravan. It's pushing five initiatives, including keeping front line workers safe, keeping workers employed, protecting pension checks, funding state and local governments, public schools, and the U.S. Postal Service. Lastly, expanding health insurance for all workers and investing in infrastructure.
