An estimated 6,000 supporters rallied in Pershing Square tonight.

The Los Angeles State of Emergency rally saw a crowd of about 6,000 teachers, parents, firefighters, police, and community members gather in Pershing Square. From the San Fernando Valley to San Pedro, teachers came by bus, train or carpool to stand up for education. Waving signs and chanting, singing songs and marching, parents, teachers, students and even grandchildren demonstrated their freedom of speech for education. Speakers were inspiring, music was upbeat and the crowds echoed back their commitment for a budget that won’t further decimate our schools and students’ futures. CTA Vice President-elect Eric Heins, Board members Theresa Montano and Mary Rose Ortega as well as coalition supporters from other labor and community organizations addressed the gathering. Montano told the crowd about her experience spending the previous night in a Sacramento jail with 26 other educators in the struggle to protect our schools. Entertainment included music by Reyna de Los Angeles Mariachi Band, an all-female group, Ross Altman and the Saticoy Elementary Students Samba Drummers.