WILLEMSTAD - The teachers’ union DOEN met again this week with Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports (BPD) Kimberly Lew-Jen-Tai to demand clarity on whether education workers will receive their August 2024 bonus payment. The union says the meeting was necessary after weeks of frustration over what it calls a serious injustice against teachers who have yet to be paid their entitled “thirteenth month” salary.

According to DOEN, the minister remained firm in her stance, telling union leaders:

“We believe we are acting correctly. If you think it’s unjust, go to court. That’s why the court of justice exists.”

The statement was met with outrage from the union, which described the situation as “cruel and unfair.”

Union representatives questioned how public sector workers in other departments who worked only six months in 2024 have received their bonus payment, while teachers — who worked seven months this year — have received nothing. The minister reportedly declined to comment on that comparison, repeating that the matter should be taken to court if the union seeks justice.

“We’re Going to Court — With Action!”

Following the meeting, DOEN held a general assembly at PWFC, where members voted overwhelmingly to pursue legal action combined with union-led action in the field.

“The mandate from our members is clear — we’re taking this case to court, but with action,” the union said. “We want a decision and a conclusion now. Every day that passes, our members are the ones suffering — not the minister. The longer this goes on, the deeper the injustice becomes.”

Preparing for Protest and Solidarity

As part of its mobilization strategy, DOEN announced it will distribute new shirts to all members as a show of unity and readiness for action.

The union also called on teachers across Curaçao to stand together in solidarity once the court date is announced.

“Whether we win or lose, we are going all the way — not for power, but for justice,” DOEN declared.

The union maintains that the non-payment of the August 2024 bonus violates principles of fairness and equal treatment within the public sector and says it is prepared to continue the fight until the matter is resolved.