Striking Chicago teachers get support from parents

Source: AP

September 11, 2012 at 7:07 pm
Striking Chicago teachers get support from parents
By Don Babwin
Associated Press



Chicago — As Chicago teachers walked the picket lines for a second day, they were joined by many of the very people who are most inconvenienced by their walkout: the parents who must now scramble to find a place for children to pass the time or for babysitters.

Mothers and fathers — some with their kids in tow — are marching with the teachers. Other parents are honking their encouragement from cars or planting yard signs that announce their support in English and Spanish.

Unions are still hallowed organizations in Chicago, and the teachers union holds a special place of honor in many households where children often grow up to join the same police, firefighter or trade unions as their parents and grandparents.

"I'm going to stay strong, behind the teachers," said the Rev. Michael Grant, who joined teachers on the picket line Tuesday. "My son says he's proud, 'You are supporting my teacher.'"



Read more: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120911/NATION/209110372#ixzz26CwnoMkH