Gov. Pat Quinn’s budget message included the warning that as many as 17,000 educators will be laid off if a tax increase is not passed this spring. Right now, thousands of IEA members are receiving pink slips – layoff notices for the coming year.
We are asking all IEA members to stand in solidarity with our laid-off members on Friday, March 19th by wearing pink. We also invite administrators, parents and community members to join us, in recognition of the effect that these losses will have on the quality of education our state.
Wear pink to the RA
The two gubernatorial candidates, Gov. Pat Quinn and Sen. Bill Brady, will be speaking at the IEA Annual Representative Assembly (RA) on March 19 in Rosemont. With our RA delegates in pink, we will show the state the IEA commitment to fair funding, and the impact that funding cuts will have on the goal to build a quality education system and economy in the state.
IEA will issue a statewide news release next week highlighting the fact that IEA members statewide are being encouraged to wear pink.
Please email IEA Communications so your district’s Pink Friday participation can be highlighted.
Remember:
- If you are coming to the RA: Pack your pink! (Pink lapel ribbons will be available)
- If you are working back home: Wear your pink on the nineteenth!