‘Our health, our state, our time,’ marchers say

The group came together to support security officers and window cleaners who are seeking affordable health care in contract talks with downtown companies – and to raise the issue of affordable health care as a concern for everyone.

"Today is about health and health care, but it is also about our community," said the Rev. Dan Garnaas, pastor at Grace University Lutheran Church and a member of the interfaith organization ISAIAH, one of the organizers of the march.

The health care crisis "hurts me deeply," said Billie Edmonds, a security officer for Securitas at the Ameriprise 707 building and member of Service Employees International Union Local 26. She was one of several workers who told personal stories.

A single mother, she cannot afford the $580 monthly premium for the family health coverage offered by Securitas, she said. "I am standing here today with thousands of officers here in the Twin Cities to negotiate a new contract so our families can have health insurance."

As Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak (above, left) and other speakers looked on, security officer Billie Edmonds addressed the rally. Marchers gathered around the "Father of Waters" statue (below) in the lobby of Minneapolis City Hall.

Edmonds and other workers led a silent procession through the downtown skyways, stopping at the offices of some of the Twin Cities\’ largest real estate and business owners. Participants left flowers at each stop as a reminder of the families who are struggling to survive without affordable health care.

In addition to ISAIAH and SEIU, organizers of the march included Change to Win Minnesota and Take Action Minnesota. Participants included union members, clergy and elected officials.

"No parent should have to choose between paying the bills and taking her child to the doctor," Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak told the crowd. "It is time for companies operating in this community to make a serious commitment to the health of Minnesota families and provide comprehensive, affordable coverage to all of their employees."

In addition to seeking affordable health care at the bargaining table, participants said they will press the 2008 Legislature to find solutions to the health care crisis.

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