Stand With Striking Chicago Teachers
As the Chicago teachers strike enters its second week, we ask all affiliates to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters on the picket line. Approximately 26,000 teachers and support staff have been on strike since September 10, 2012. At stake is the direction of public education in Chicago and possibly beyond. Management has threatened to increase class size to 55 students, while continuing to defund art, music, language and sports programs. Further, they seek to erode job protections for experienced teachers in more than 100 schools designated for closure and they aim to make student standardized test scores the basis for teacher evaluations - without any consideration for factors outside of the classroom.This is one of the highest profile strikes in recent memory and a critical moment for workers throughout the nation. As negotiations continue, we ask affiliated unions to send a message of support to the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU - AFT Local 1) that their fellow union members stand with them in solidarity during this struggle.
You can show your support for the CTU by passing a resolution (a draft copy can be obtained below) and send it to Audrey May, Executive Assistant to the President, Chicago Teachers Union Local 1, AFT/AFL-CIO at audreymay@ctulocal1.com
Unions can also make contributions to the strike fund on-line at: http://tinyurl.com/ctusolidarity
Thank you for your support.
