Statement by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka in solidarity with teachers across the country:
Real change happens when regular people loudly and unapologetically join together to make it happen. This collective action—the foundation of the labor movement—is being put on full display by our nation’s teachers. The country is taking notice. It’s powerful. It’s making a difference. And the entire labor movement is growing stronger because of it.
When working people dutifully play by the rules and still can’t get ahead, they’re going to upend those rules. That’s exactly what’s happening today. Teachers, from West Virginia and Kentucky to Oklahoma and Arizona, are fighting to overturn a rigged system that has left them behind for decades. They’re inspiring a resurgence of collective action among all working people who are hungry for real change to improve our lives.
The 12.5 million members of the AFL-CIO are proud to stand with all those marching to secure a brighter future for our teachers, students and families.
Contact: John Weber (202) 637-5018