University of Minnesota Strike Threatens Farm Aid 40 Minneapolis Cancellation

The upcoming Farm Aid 40 concert, scheduled for September 20 at the University of Minnesota's Huntington Bank Stadium, faces uncertainty due to an ongoing Teamsters Local 320 strike involving 1,400 custodial, maintenance, food service, and sanitation workers. Organizers, including artists like Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp, have stated that production crews will not cross the picket line, reflecting their support for labor rights and urging the university to return to negotiations immediately. The strike began after workers rejected the university's latest offer of a 3% wage increase, seeking at least 3.5%, similar to agreements with other university employee groups. The university maintains that it has been in ongoing discussions with Farm Aid organizers and claims the decision to proceed with the event is theirs alone, emphasizing its support for farmers and the festival's mission. Farm Aid organizers voiced concern that the strike jeopardizes not only the event but also the livelihoods of the striking workers, highlighting the inseparable connection between farm and labor movements. With stage construction set to begin imminently, the organizers are exploring options including relocating or canceling the event if the dispute is not resolved promptly.