Striking Chicago Teachers Visited by Elizabeth Warren

Massachusetts senator and Democratic presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren joined striking members of the Chicago Teachers Union on Tuesday, October 22, the sixth day of their walkout, according to local reports.

Approximately 300,000 students were out of class while more than 30,000 school staff participated in the ongoing strike to demand better pay and benefits, more staff, and smaller class sizes, the Chicago Tribune reported.

On Monday, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot sparked criticism from the Chicago Teachers Union after asking teachers and administrators to end the strike and go back to work while a new contract is being negotiated, according to local media.

Warren spoke to a crowd outside Oscar DePriest Elementary School, affirming her support for the strike and public education in general.

“I remember what it was like to be one of the most important people in a child’s life,” Warren, a onetime public school teacher, said to the crowd. “And I want to say to every one of you, whatever part you have in this, thank you for all you do every single day.” Credit: Alexis Krieg via Storyful