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October 15, 2014

Chicago Teachers Union President Has Brain Tumor, Won't Pursue Mayoral Bid 
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A top labor leader and champion for public education in Chicago has been
diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor. Karen Lewis, the president of
the Chicago Teachers Union, has led the struggle against school closures
and privatization in Chicago, culminating in a teachers' strike that
made national headlines two years ago. Her medical condition will
prevent her from running against Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel in next
year's election, a move she had been strongly considering. A recent poll
had placed Lewis ahead of Emanuel by nine points. In a statement, a
spokesperson said: "Karen Lewis has decided to not pursue a mayoral bid.
Yet she charges us to continue fighting for strong neighborhood schools,
safe communities and good jobs for everyone."

 

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