The American Federation of Teachers’ Fight for Higher Wages
In February 2018, teachers across West Virginia went on strike to demand higher pay and better healthcare benefits. Despite facing legal barriers to strike, teachers organized a statewide walkout that lasted nine days and garnered widespread public support. Their efforts resulted in a 5% pay raise for all state employees, including teachers, as well as the establishment of a task force to address issues related to healthcare and education funding.
West Virginia Teachers' Strike (2018)
Los Angeles Teachers' Strike (2019)
In January 2019, more than 30,000 teachers in Los Angeles went on strike to demand smaller class sizes, increased support staff, and higher salaries. The strike, organized by United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), was the first strike in the city in 30 years. After six days of picketing and negotiations, the teachers secured a contract agreement that included reduced class sizes, additional support staff, and a 6% salary increase for teachers.
In October 2019, members of the Chicago Teachers' Union (CTU) went on strike to demand better pay, smaller class sizes, and increased support staff, including nurses and social workers. The strike, which lasted for 11 days, resulted in significant gains for teachers, including a 16% salary increase over five years, limits on class sizes, and additional support staff positions.
Chicago Teachers' Union Strike (2019)
New York City Nurses' Strike (2020)
In December 2020, nurses at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York, went on strike to demand better staffing levels, improved working conditions, and higher wages. The strike, organized by the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), lasted for two days and resulted in a tentative contract agreement that included provisions for increased staffing levels, wage increases, and protections for nurses' safety and well-being.
These examples highlight the effectiveness of union organizing in advocating for the rights and interests of workers, whether they are teachers, nurses, or other professionals. Through collective action and solidarity, unions have been able to secure meaningful improvements in wages, working conditions, and resources for their members.