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Cardboard letters representing the Qualified Economic Offer law were set up in front of a bonfire Wednesday night (November 19, 1997) while Janesville teachers and supporters rallied nearby. Minutes later, cheering teachers tossed the letters, one by one, into the flames.
Photo by Bill Hurley
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The QEO went up in flames Wednesday night (November 19, 1997) at a spectacular rally and bonfire organized by the Janesville Education Association.
About 200 participants sang songs, burned Q-E-O letters and tossed “Tommy Dollars” into the fire. Tommy Dollars are named for Gov. Tommy Thompson, who initiated the Qualified Economic Offer law and school district revenue controls. They represent lost earnings for teachers and lost opportunities for schools.
In speeches leading up to the burning, teachers soundly attacked the QEO law, which has handcuffed teachers at the bargaining table and led to salary increases well below the rate of inflation. They sang several songs. One, called “Ode to the QEO,” included this line:
“Tonight we’ll burn the QEO and vow to continue our fight. Eventually, repealing it when enough legislators see the light.”
Janesville teachers have been engaging in a series of actions to protest the lack of serious negotiations. They have picketed, conducted walk-ins and refused to perform voluntary duties.
Posted November 20, 1997; Updated November 24, 1997