The Info Underground

May Day caravan protest aims to block military exports from New Jersey
https://njtoday.news/2025/04/27/may-day-caravan-protest-aims-to-block-military-exports-from-new-jersey/

A coalition of left-wing activists is planning to blockade the Port of Newark and Elizabeth, New Jersey, on May 1 as part of a car caravan protest aimed at halting weapons exports to Israel. https://www.mobilize.us/mayday/event/779525/

The action, organized under the slogan "Stop Arms for Israel," is set to coincide with International Workers Day and seeks to unite workers, students, and immigrants around a broader social and economic agenda.

The protest is organized by a committee supported by groups such as "Save Gaza, Save Us All" and the International Luxemburgist Network (NY-NJ), among others.

Organizers claim that almost all U.S. arms destined for Israel's military operations pass through Port Newark, and they hope that a disruption of port traffic will call attention to what they describe as a "genocidal war" being carried out in Gaza.

Protesters also intend to show solidarity with port truckers and other workers.

The event demands not only an end to weapons shipments but also justice for port workers, the release of immigrant detainees including Mahmoud Khalil and Kilmar Abrego Garcia, and broader calls for free education, healthcare, clean energy, and the creation of millions of jobs.

Participants are being asked to assemble at 12:30 p.m. at Military Park in Newark for a May Day rally before proceeding in a car caravan to Port Newark from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Organizers present the action as part of a larger movement to reclaim economic and political power from corporations and billionaires.

They advocate for the redistribution of wealth to fund public services and infrastructure, aiming to "build a better world for all."

The protest is part of a growing trend of direct action aimed at U.S. ports, reflecting broader national and international concerns about military conflicts and domestic labor conditions.

Authorities in Newark have not yet indicated how they plan to respond to the protest, but traffic disruptions around the port area are expected.