The Teamsters strike at the University of Minnesota could force organizers to relocate or cancel next weekend's Farm Aid concert.
With stage construction set to begin this Friday at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, workers are refusing to cross picket lines.
Farm Aid released a statement saying they stand with the union, believing the farm and labor movements are important.
But they're warning a cancellation would have a devastating financial impact, potentially threatening the organization's survival.
The strike by over 1,400 service workers is the first since the 1970s and has left dining halls empty and restrooms unkempt across all five Minnesota campuses, including the Twin Cities where the concert is scheduled for a week from Saturday.
Union leaders say the strike could continue into the weekend with no future negotiations scheduled.
Farm Aid 40 is scheduled for September 20th with numerous big-name stars scheduled to appear, including Farm Aid founders Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, plus Dave Matthews, Kenny Chesney, Margo Price, Steve Earle, Wynonna Judd, and other big names scheduled to perform.
Tens of thousands of fans are expected to attend so finding a similar, outdoor venue could be difficult. The Twins are playing a doubleheader at Target Field that day. Even moving a show this large inside could be difficult with the Vikings playing at home on Sunday.
Thursday afternoon, the University of Minnesota provided this statement about the strike and the show to WCCO Radio:
"The University is and will remain highly supportive of farmers. The University of Minnesota values the mission and aim of the Farm Aid festival and has gone above and beyond to partner with the organizers to create an exceptional experience for attendees and artists.
We have been engaged in conversation with Farm Aid for months and especially throughout this week. The decision about whether the event moves forward is theirs. It is not a University of Minnesota decision.
The University presented a highly competitive offer to our Teamsters-represented employees, one that supports the important work they do and is financially responsible as a University."
The University’s response to Farm Aid's call for the University to act:
"The University remains at the negotiating table and is waiting for Teamsters Local 320 to join us. We are in regular contact with the Bureau of Mediation Services and committed to reaching a fair and equitable agreement."