SPRINGFIELD – The following statement can be attributed to Karl Goeke, president of the Illinois Education Association:
“As we see attacks on our immigrant communities intensify in Illinois and across the country, specifically the weaponization of our nation’s military against our unarmed citizenry in Chicago and other metropolitan areas, we denounce these attacks.
“We specifically denounce the use of schools, and other public places historically recognized as spaces of safety for students, as targets in an unjust campaign against innocents intended to ferment unrest and fear.
“No child should fear attending their school.
“No parent should fear the drop-off or pick-up line.
“No community should have to bear the collective trauma that these fears bring.
“From the Elgin Community College student swept up by ICE in the school parking lot last month, to parents afraid to pick up their child at school, to students too afraid to go to school, play outside, or attend sporting events – our schools should not be weaponized.
“We stand resolute that ALL public schools in Illinois should remain free from fear.
“We call on school boards to adopt safe zone policies and to hold or continue to hold ‘know your rights’ trainings for staff, students and community members.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to working together with our union brothers and sisters, community partners, and ANYONE willing to partner with us to ensure that every child lives with the promise of a good public education. And to partner with us to help all children realize the American dream that hard work, commitment and perseverance can and will make a difference in their lives. And, to partner with us on the truth that education is the primary pathway to personal betterment and a stronger citizenry.”
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The 135,000 member Illinois Education Association (IEA-NEA) is the state’s largest union. IEA represents Pre K-12 teachers outside the city of Chicago and education support staff, higher education faculty, retired education employees and students preparing to become teachers, statewide.
