In a recent statement by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka he expressed solidarity with public school teachers in West Virginia: “The victory for teachers and public employees in West Virginia is a true testament to their activism and an important reminder of the power of working people to improve the lives of everyone. Whether it is raising pay, providing quality health care our making our jobs safer, all workers know that when we join together and fight together, we will win together.”
Only two states in the union pay their teachers lower salaries than West Virginia. The striking teachers suspended their state’s entire school system for over a week, creating a significant burden on students and parents in West Virginia. Public support for the teacher’s demands remained very high and forced the mostly conservative state legislature to reward their act of solidarity.
Click here to read the full release from AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka.
Click here to read the release from the American Federation of Teachers.