The walkout is a collective escalation—and a test.

Those in power have escalated attacks on our rights, our bodies, and our livelihoods. We’re escalating in response. Walking out lets us stress-test our readiness for real, collective action—not just symbolic protest.

It tests whether we can move together, organize across workplaces and communities, and build the muscle for non-compliance and action-based resistance. Just as importantly, it brings us together to start building a Free America—an feminist America that is economically just, racially equitable, and safe for immigrants—alongside our coworkers, classmates, family, and friends.

This is how we prepare for bigger fights ahead.

Marches show how many people care. Walkouts show how much power we have.

A walkout interrupts business as usual. It makes visible how much our labor, participation, and cooperation are taken for granted—and what happens when we withdraw them together. And we have seen the power of walkouts around the world, from Poland to Chile, who have fought peacefully and successfully to dismantle injustice and topple authoritarian regimes.

At this moment, visibility alone isn’t enough. We need action that tests our strength, builds coordination, and proves that non-compliance is a legitimate response to injustice. Global history shows us that a walkout does that. It moves us from expression to pressure, and from outrage to action.

There’s no single answer that applies to everyone, because workplace rules, contracts, and labor protections vary. In some workplaces, collective action is protected; in others, especially in at-will employment states, employers have broad discretion.

To that end, you should never feel pressured to risk your livelihood. Participation can include using your designated break time to step out briefly, joining a community-based gathering before or after work, wearing a symbol of solidarity, or organizing others by adding an event or meeting place to the map. 

Some workers are even participating by using paid time off, sick time, personal days, or unpaid leave. If your workplace is aligned and amenable to it, maybe you can even organize your managers to close up shop briefly!

Reviewing your employee handbook, talking with a trusted coworker, or consulting a union representative (if you have one) can help you understand your options.

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If your employer has clearly prohibited walkouts or protests during work hours, it may be safest to participate off the clock, take approved leave, or support the walkout in other ways—by organizing coworkers, sharing information, or showing public solidarity.

Stay tuned to learn more about how you can connect & show support digitally!

At-will employment gives employers broad power, and we want to be honest about that.

Many at-will workers are choosing to take PTO or unpaid time, participate during breaks or shift changes, support digitally, or help organize behind the scenes. There is no single “right” way—only what’s possible for you.

Yes, teachers and school staff can participate, but how you participate should be guided by your contract, district policies, and state law.

Many educators are taking personal or sick days, participating before or after school hours, wearing symbols of solidarity, organizing colleagues, or supporting student participation while maintaining supervision and safety responsibilities.

Teachers are strongly encouraged to consult their union representative before participating. Your union can clarify what is protected under your contract, what forms of participation are safest, and how to act collectively without risking your job or credentials.

Teachers should not abandon students or violate contractual obligations. The goal is collective pressure, not putting educators or students at risk.

In states where strikes or walkouts are restricted, educators still have options. Many are participating off the clock, using approved leave, engaging in public advocacy, or supporting organizing efforts in ways that comply with their contracts and state law.

Union guidance is especially important in these states and can help educators identify safe, effective ways to participate.

Yes. Students have always been a powerful force for change.

School policies vary, and some schools may mark absences or impose discipline, so parental or guardian support can be helpful, especially for minors. Students should review school rules, possibly check in with teachers, and decide what level of participation works best for them. Some teachers may even choose to join the effort in a “supervisory” capacity!

Students can participate by organizing their classmates to walk out of their classrooms and rally in a specific place on campus, or by joining a coordinated moment of silence. These activities aren’t limited to campus hours, though, so check the map for actions in your community!

No. Participation can be brief or extended. Whether you walk out for an official work break or take off for the remainder of the work day, you’ve walked out. What matters is acting together.

Have fun with it! Organizing others and coordinating community rally points are an excellent way to not only participate, but to bring together others within your community. You can also just go to a store and walk out, or go for a stroll in your neighborhood or local park.

You are still part of this movement. You can organize others, amplify the walkout, support participants, or take action outside work or school hours. Movements succeed because people contribute in many different ways.

No. This FAQ provides general guidance, not legal advice. For specific questions, consult a union representative, worker advocacy organization, or legal professional if you have specific concerns!