On Sept. 23, we have the opportunity to reflect on one of the great triumphs of the Illinois labor movement. It marks the 40th anniversary of collective bargaining for teachers and education support staff in Illinois. It is a momentous occasion, and we must take the time to acknowledge the transformative power of collective voice in education, especially at a time when the labor movement is seeing new life and studies show the deep impact unions have on uplifting the economy.
Four decades ago, under the direction of Republican Gov. Jim Thompson and through the intense lobbying efforts of the Illinois Education Association, the state took a significant step toward recognizing the rights of its teachers and education support staff to negotiate fair wages, benefits, working and learning conditions by passing the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Act.
