Democratic Underground - Washington Stands with Wisconsin -- DIAL-UP Warning!

Olympia Washington Noon Rally

When I arrived, 200 Teabaggers had stationed themselves on the steps of the Statehouse. They had been bussed in. The Unions, however, scared them off. The media underestimate numbers, but they say 2500 showed up. Here are a few of those in attendance. I must admit, I was overwhelmed by the muscle and might of the men and women I saw. Young and old. Marching, chanting, and discovering our power. UNION SOLIDARITY. At one time, the Olympia Fire Department had to respond to an emergency as someone slipped on the ice. Oh did I mention it was 26 F and 6 inches of snow on the ground? A reminder of why public employees are valuable.

As one of the AFT members at the rally, I came expecting to see a bunch of pale out-of-shape teachers. I was blown away by ironworkers, electricians, state ferry workers, police, firefighters, nurses, engineers, machinists. Every state union worker was represented today! Politicians came out and joined us from their offices. Kids. Seniors. Veterans. This is what Democracy looks like. This is what Washington State thinks of Governor Walker's treatment of Wisconsin workers. We stand with them. Don't push us!!