A Look Back...
Hawaii Teachers Go On Strike; Schools Close for 19 Days
Fifteen years ago today, 13,000 teachers took the bravest step. With steely resolve and fire in their bellies, they left their classrooms, picked up their signs, and walked the picket line. It wasn’t something they wanted to do. It was something they had to do.
The main issue was pay, but there were other teaching conditions that caused teachers concern. It was also a matter of respecting teachers — and the state had not indicated they had any respect for their employees.
Public opinion polls showed that 90% of Hawaii’s residents supported teachers in their fight. And picket lines were visited daily by parents, students, area residents and businesses to show their support. Restaurants offered special discounts (and sometimes free meals) to any teacher wearing a strike t-shirt.
In all, teachers walked the picket line for 19 days. Almost three weeks without pay and benefits proved to be a hardship for everyone, but it stopped no one. Every teacher held strong and united, which showed the state that we meant business and would not settle for anything less than their best offer.
Thank you to the teachers who walked the line 15 years ago. Your solidarity was beauty to behold and paved the way for all that we can do today.
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