Angry Auxiliares in Spain

In my previous posts I've written about strikes, the crisis and how we have yet to be paid.  Well in the last couple of weeks the Auxiliares of Extremadura have completely lost all patience with the Spanish government.  We have a facebook group consisting of 100+ where we discuss things, ask questions, share funny experiences, etc.  Recently our facebook group has turned chaotic due to the fact that we haven't been paid. 

Auxiliares de Conversacion- 144 members in Extremadura


Several Americans have contacted the US embassy to get them involved, others have mentioned going on strike, most have called the program director only to get a response of (I don't know) and everyone has complained over and over again only to get no where.
Up until last week, the government was ignoring the Auxiliares in Extremadura but not now! Today on the front page of the local newspaper, our story finally being heard.

The board of Education hasn't paid 112 foreign teachers since the beginning of the school year

 Crazy huh?  I never imagined something like this happening during my time here in Spain but I guess I should start expecting the unexpected.  Honestly, yeah it's a little unfortunate that things had to come this far but how can you expect us not to be upset?  Not all of us are Americans but those that are have traveled across the world to come live here in Spain.  We left the comfort and convenience of our own lives to help teach English to Spanish children.  We sacrificed a lot, spent a lot of money, went through hell and back with paperwork to become legal workers and this is how they welcome us.  We are putting our own money back into Spain whether its groceries, public transportation, tourism, etc.  Although we still get the opportunity to travel around such a beautiful country, this situation has left a very negative image of how things work around here. 

Some Spaniards laugh and say "No pasa nada, this is Spain", whereas others are truly embarrassed to have this image portrayed of their country.  Those who do work often and work hard are left fighting against this negative portrayal. 

A current update of our situation:  As of two days ago, the Secretary of Education sent an e-mail stating that "the problems with the transmission have been resolved, you should be receiving 3 months pay within the next few days".  Weird how two weeks ago, they didn't know anything.  Now that the US embassy and the local news are involved, "the issues have been resolved".  Either way, I've been checking my bank account religiously!  When the paychecks finally do arrive, I can promise you that there will be 112 very happy foreigners celebrating :)