Question about union strike @@

[rikki]

The teachers at my son’s school will be on strike tomorrow. I’d like to do something to show my solidarity like donuts and coffee. I would also like to join them marching if that is ok. I have no idea though if it is acceptable or if it is more of a private thing for the teachers only. Anyone know what is generally acceptable?

[schrodinger]

My experience comes from refinery strikes, so take this with a grain of salt. It is usually acceptable to have people that are not members of the striking union to be at the picket line. It’s quite normal for other unions to send reps to march in support.

And food and coffee is always welcome!

[WOT?*]

My husband says coffee and donuts and showing solidarity is fine, which means standing with them on the picket line is acceptable, as long as you don’t break any rules (No blocking entrances or exits, no keying cars, cursing at administration or passers-by, etc. ) I would suggest you ask, “Hey is it okay if I...?” one of the teachers or union rep before you join in. You'll likely get a lot of enthusiastic yesses.  

I’m more of a bring coffee and donuts and tell them you’re with them but not a sign grabber kind of gal so I asked him. He’s a former union attorney, now corporate.)

flex thoughts?

[Vespasia]

rikki could you please add an @ to the title since this is about your kid's school?

[Bad Dingo]

100% join in and bring your kids, friends, and family. Coffee and doughnuts are also always welcome.

[rikki]

Oct 17, 2019 4:58:44 GMT -5 Vespasia said:

rikki could you please add an @ to the title since this is about your kid's school?

yes. So sorry.

[scout8]

I just saw something posted on FB about how to show support and it specifically mentioned joining the teachers on the picket line. Also mentioned dropping off drinks and snacks.

[joenali]

Definitely join the picket line! Definitely bring snacks.
Solidarity.

If you live within walking distance of the school or you know someone who does, open up your house so teachers can use the bathroom. Teachers will not be allowed into the school to use the bathroom! We went on strike about five years ago and our school neighbors opened up their house to all of us!

[rikki]

Oct 17, 2019 7:33:35 GMT -5 joenali said:

Definitely join the picket line! Definitely bring snacks.
Solidarity.

If you live within walking distance of the school or you know someone who does, open up your house so teachers can use the bathroom. Teachers will not be allowed into the school to use the bathroom! We went on strike about five years ago and our school neighbors opened up their house to all of us!

great idea. We live directly across the street.

[flex]

Everything that everyone has already said. Just knowing that the public supports you is gold! And maybe different snacks than coffee and doughnuts. Water and protein perhaps?

[macmars45]

Yes, join and bring food.

@@
My parents are retired elementary teachers. My sisters and I joined them during strikes at least a few times when we were too young to fully appreciate what they were fighting for. As an adult who works for a public school district myself, I get it and will share with my DS as he gets older. And he will come strike with me if it comes to that.

[notsopicky]

rikki, I'm a school employee in another state, and while we are not permitted to strike, I think it's fantastic that you are willing to show support, supply refreshments and stand with them while they do. I hope the Chicago teachers are able to get all that they are asking for.

[bugandbibs]

I spent 13 days on strike last school year. It means so much to have parents and students show their support. Any kind of portable food and drinks is awesome and helps keep spirts up. We welcomed everyone on the picket line and helps the optics on the news coverage.

Additionally, please contact your local school board and school district to express your support of the school staff.

[okla]

When our teachers went on strike about a year and a half ago, they were at the Capitol every day and definitely appreciated the general public joining. Also, many people sent pizza or sandwiches, donuts, etc. all appreciated. Is it cold there yet? Other things you could contribute are gloves, those hot hands bags, hats, hot chocolate, etc.

[bimbi284]

[bimbi284]

[nellgirl]

As a teacher who has been on strike a few times in my career, I would love to have a parent come and picket with us, even more than the coffee

[nellgirl]

Oct 17, 2019 7:45:53 GMT -5 rikki said:

Oct 17, 2019 7:33:35 GMT -5 joenali said:

Definitely join the picket line! Definitely bring snacks.
Solidarity.

If you live within walking distance of the school or you know someone who does, open up your house so teachers can use the bathroom. Teachers will not be allowed into the school to use the bathroom! We went on strike about five years ago and our school neighbors opened up their house to all of us!

great idea. We live directly across the street.

Yes! This! We’ve been lucky that the out of school care is offsite and across the street, but this is a huge thing for most schools!

[bimbi284]