Even as the union leadership seems to be back-pedaling from its hard line on no new taxes, today Belize City teachers were picking up steam as they took to the streets gathering signatures for a petition they will present to government. And while they were asking for signatures, as two of the teachers told us what they were getting was mad love and support.
Teacher #1,
"We are reaching the public. As teachers we are reaching the public because people still don't understand fully what is happening and as they ask questions I answer to the best of my ability. Reform, no taxes, and 5% & 8% - those are the three major things we have. If I read the paper it says our nation is in crisis and we need your support. Let your voices be heard and participate in the cause for national reform. Sign and let your voice be counted. It is very encouraging to know we have the support of the public. I've met some people that have said no and that's their view."
Teacher #2,
"Everybody has been cooperating and with the first word I make sure I explain to the people that it is not about money, it is about putting reforms in place so that for the future we have those policies to work from and everybody right away said yes and signed. I think they are getting the understanding it is not about money now because at first some people, even this morning I heard a caller say its about the money and teachers and greedy and that kind of stuff. But I think they are understanding, at least the people that I am talking to, that its not about money. Its for the bigger picture and like said its supportive. We just want to convey to the government that's it not just teachers acting crazy, it's the entire community. We want to see change."
Jules Vasquez,
Will all this have been worth it if it is over by Monday?
Teacher #2,
"Yes. The work will be worth all the effort we put into it but I don't know how soon, I don't know what day but we are hoping it will be over soon."
Jules Vasquez,
You want to go back to school?
Teacher #2,
"I want to go back to school but I also want to see certain things accomplished."
And no matter how much love they get on the streets, they won't get it from their employer, the GOB. Minister of Education Francis Fonseca today confirmed that when they get their pay tomorrow, the teachers' pay will be docked for the days of worked they missed from Monday to Friday of this week. As part of a prior arrangement he made with the union leadership, they will be paid for last week Thursday and Friday. But right now that seems to be an after thought for teachers who seem to be fuelled by their conviction, even if that doesn't pay the rent. But the sister unions are chipping in. On Sunday the NTUCB has planned a solidarity concert with the proceeds going to benefit teachers whose pay has been cut. That culminates a weekend of protest which starts tomorrow in Belize City with an NTUCB Rally at 8:30 am at the Memorial Park, it will be followed by a parade through the streets and a rally at the Memorial Park. Later on tomorrow evening there will be an Ecumenical Service at the Civic Center and in the night a candle light vigil, staged in an unusual setting, the Lopez Mateos Park in the King's Park Area.
