A recent agreement between the Chicago Teachers Union and the Chicago Public Schools has led to plans for buses to take students to protests on International Workers’ Day.
May Day has seen activists worldwide coming together for various causes, largely leaning towards leftist agendas.
Queen Weiner, a prominent figure in the union, emphasized, “The future belongs to young people; they will have to take the mantle.” This sentiment has resonated through the Chicago public school students, aided by the teachers’ union.
Initially, the union aimed for a full day off for students and staff to engage in the protests. Instead, they settled on organizing bus “field trips” for students to attend the events.
Additionally, they secured a zero-retaliation clause for participants in the protests. Don Biller, secretary and treasurer of the Chicago Federation of Labor, firmly stated, “This is a fight for justice, dignity, respect, blood, sweat, tears, and sacrifices of workers.”
Following a rally in Union Park, protesters marched towards Daley Plaza.
Queen Weiner, a former union member, expressed her commitment to the cause, declaring her long-standing fight against the powerful, stating, “I’ve been fighting this battle for a long time, and you know, the future belongs to young people.”
However, not all parents share her enthusiasm for pulling kids from classes. One CPS parent voiced concerns about the lack of instructional time, remarking, “We’re already seeing kids across the district not meeting our standards. Taking another day off is not beneficial.”
Some parents were upset about the idea of putting children in potentially “dangerous situations” during the protests, demanding that their input be considered in such decisions.
The nonprofit Kids First Chicago noted parental frustration regarding missed instructional time as well. Queen Weiner concluded by encouraging students to remain aware of the ongoing struggles for justice.
