AFL-CIO offering peacekeeper trainings

Opportunity for union members to skill-up to support nonviolent, direct actions

(January 30, 2026) — As working people continue to hit the streets marching in opposition to the federal administration’s violent immigration enforcement campaign, the AFL-CIO is announcing a slate of virtual peacekeeper trainings for union members from February through April. Union peacekeepers can play a much-needed role in direct actions, supporting non-violent demonstrations.

Union members often have plenty of experience in direct action from their organizing and contract fights, participating in informational pickets, strikes, May Day marches, political days of action and more. In Minnesota, union peacekeepers supported the January 23 Day of Truth and Freedom actions, sporting bright vests and helping keep the massive crowds of protestors safe.

Interested union members can join one of several virtual trainings offered to learn how to lift up the safety and effectiveness of nonviolent actions like marches or rallies, and how de-escalate and document disruptions.

Sign-up online for any of the available sessions. Training dates are:

• Wed, Feb 11, 4:00pm–5:00pm EST
• Wed, Feb 25, 4:00pm–5:00pm EST
• Wed, Mar 11, 4:00pm–5:00pm EDT
• Wed, Mar 25, 4:00pm–5:00pm EDT
• Wed, Apr 8, 4:00pm–5:00pm EDT
• Wed, Apr 22, 4:00pm–5:00pm EDT

Protestors preparing to march on May Day, 2025.