AFT Massachusetts Stands in Strong Solidarity with Chicago Teachers Union Educators On Strike

After more than 10 months of frustrating bargaining, over 25,000 Chicago Teachers Union teachers, clinicians, teaching assistants and support staff are officially on strike as of today, Thursday, October 17. The goal: to win — in writing, in an enforceable contract — learning and working conditions that respect educators and provide Chicago’s students with the schools they deserve.

Educators are fighting for conditions that include smaller class sizes, adequate staffing—from social workers and school nurses to librarians and teachers for English language learners and special education students—and living wages for paraprofessionals, some of whom earn less than $30,000/year.

“AFT Massachusetts members stand in strong solidarity with the Chicago Teachers Union in your fight for real education justice,” said AFT Massachusetts President Beth Kontos. “When you bargain for lower class sizes and fully staffed schools, wrap around services and restorative justice, and equal pay and fair benefits, your fight is our fight, and we’re with you all the way.”

“We’re deeply inspired by your commitment to improving your students’ lives and strengthening your schools’ communities,” Kontos continued. “You’ve shown in the past that when we stand together and fight for what’s right, we win, and we have no doubt you’ll prove it again. Educators, parents, students, and community allies in Massachusetts are standing with you until you win a contract that’s good for students and fair to educators – whatever it takes.”

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