FIGHTING FOR COLLECTIVE  BARGAINING

   In 1966, few school teacher unions in the country had won a right that we take for granted today - the right to work according to a contract between our union and our employer - the right to bargain collectively.

   Having organized themselves some years before into a union with their slogan "Dignity and Status" proudly worn on their union buttons, in 1966, our membership tested their solidarity and resolve by risking their jobs and going out on strike for the right to sit down with the leaders of the school district and negotiate a contract that would determine the rules and condition of their employment.

   The President of the PCT at that time was Jerry Berger, a high School science teacher, saved the press coverage of this history making strike.  We are indebted to him for his leadership and to his family for providing us with these materials.  Take some time a browse through the history of what these union pioneers did for us.

   Long Island Press Coverage        Newsday Coverage       New York Times Coverage        Daily News Coverage      Hearald Tribune

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