Please read this great article in the Nation for a well-rounded explanation of what was won during the nine day strike in West Virginia. https://www.thenation.com/article/the-west-virginia-teachers-strike-shows-that-winning-big-requires-creating-a-crisis/ Congratulations to the West Virginia teachers and school staff and to all of you who supported their struggle. You have demonstrated through your unity and solidarity that victory is possible when people come together!Here is a link to an article about this effort that appeared in the West Virginia Gazette:Through this fund, we have raised almost $21,000. We were able to provide food during the last crucial days of this historic strike. The pizza was a visible symbol of your caring and support for those who do the hard and important work in our classrooms and our schools. In the words of one striker : " I want to thank your organization for the pizzas which fed and strengthened our bodies, and for the kind words of support which fed and strengthened our souls. Your kindness and generosity will not be forgotten. "$8108 will be used to pay for 700 pizzas ,( half pepperoni and half plain cheese ) and 800 bottles of water, bought from locally owned Husson's pizza. The balance of the funds will be divided among the three unions that were on strike: West Virginia Education Association, AFT- West Virginia and the West Virginia School Service Personnel Association. In order to do accomplish those two things, I will withdraw the funds in my own name.Please remember this campaign the next time you hear of workers on a picket line. Perhaps you will be the one to set up a solidarity fund for them. ( It was actually very easy to do. I would be happy to walk you through the steps)Solidarity forever!Lita BlancPresident, United Educators of San FranciscoToday, my inbox exploded with words of appreciation and gratitude from the striking teachers and school staff in Wexst Virginia. I am letting everyone know that although UESF opened the doors for the pizza solidarity campaign, the donations have been coming in from hundreds of individuals from all over the country. From coast to coast, you have showed that you are solidly behind the strikers. Small gestures can and do often make an enormous difference. Please help us by continuing to spread the word.