Editor, The Times:
Congratulations, sisters and brothers.
Yesterday, a strong (89 per cent) strike mandate proves once again that you are the spearhead of defence for public education in this province. And why is defending public education so important?
Public education is, by far, the best vehicle to deliver quality education to the 90 per cent of citizens who are not independently wealthy. With all its warts – real, imagined or manufactured – it is still, head and shoulders, the best hope of building a fair, just and democratic society.
In the face of a provincial government gone mad with privatization, bolstered by the corporate-backed propaganda machine – the Fraser Institute, you the teachers of this province have a special role to play.
I also know from experience how uncomfortable being thrust into this position makes you feel, but know that there is support for you in a public that can see through the sea of government propaganda.
Good luck in your endeavour to defend public education and get a fair deal for yourselves. I pledge to use whatever talents I have to support and defend your efforts, wherever they may lead you.
Wes Morden, retired teacher
Clearwater, B.C.
