Dolores Huerta Supports Hayward Teacher Strike

The Hayward teachers’ strike continues today, April 6th, as teachers and the community rallied at Birchfield Park at 11:00AM.
Dolores Huerta, co-founder and the First Vice President Emeritus of the United Farm Workers (UFW), spoke at the rally in support of the teachers.
“I think the strike is wonderful,” said Huerta. “Everybody has come together and there is no doubt in my mind that they are going to win.”
Huerta, along with Cesar E. Chavez, directed the Delano grape strike in 1965.
“She has history in our labor movements,” said Hayward teacher Martin Genera. “People realize that she’s the grassroots community hero for a lot of us. It’s a blessing that she comes here to help our community, schools and families.”
By the end of Huerta’s speech, she motivated the crowd to chant, “Viva la Huelga!” and “Si, se puede!” which translates to “Long live the strike!” and “Yes, we can!”
According to Hayward Education Association (HEA) President Kathleen Crummey, the money is on the table and the district needs to give teachers a fair wage increase. Crummey also mentioned that Superintendent Dale Vigil is not on the bargaining team and he will be leaving on a vacation.
“I hope the district makes its decisions and choices and spend its money on the teachers,” said Genera.
The Representative of the District Office did not return phone calls by press time.