UFT: Let’s do those contract teach-ins right today
Contract teach-ins start today. As I wrote last week, I’m in favor of the teach-ins, albeit with some modifications. I support them to the extent that they help members learn, think, and build some organizing infrastructure around our contract. I oppose them to the extent that the timing is odd (t
Understanding the ‘Politics’ of the UFT’s Progressive Opposition
Members of Unity Caucus commonly claim that the High School Executive Board or its members have political motives. This was brought to a certain climax on Monday, Jan 23rd at the second January meeting of the UFT Executive Board with the word ‘political’ being used in response to a resolution th
Healthcare and Charters: Exec Board, 1-23-2023
Summary: Along with some meaningful speeches on contract from rank and file members, tonight’s UFT executive board meeting focused primarily on charters and healthcare. Contract: A Chapter Leader commented on her perplexity at the rationale behind the contract ‘teach ins’ given the
UFT: Let’s Organize for a Fair Contract
UFT members need a decent contract. With inflation at sky high levels and our pay rates stuck in the 2021-2022 school year, we frankly need that contract yesterday. On Jan. 30, many chapters across the city will engage in ‘teach ins’ to learn about and organize around the contract. Hundr
Mulgrew to Members: Prepare for Premiums – Analyzing the 1-18-2023 Delegate Assembly
The UFT’s first delegate assembly of 2023 was an incredibly rich source of disappointing information – particularly Mulgrew’s nonchalant remark that in-service members will likely now pay premiums. The big topic tonight was healthcare. For more exhaustive minutes, including the man
Who actually needs time to read a contract anyways? – Executive Board Meeting, 1-9-2023
Summary: The full minutes are below, but here are some highlights: Full minutes below: Open Mike Victoria (Librarian): 22 year veteran. Came in as a teacher. Always felt like I had a union presence in district 85. Feel like I’ve been thrown into the waters since I’ve moved into being a librarian
The Case for Tier 6 (and later Tier 4) Members to Oppose Changes to Our Healthcare
Tier 6ers have it rough. We have to work for larger portions of our lifetimes and contribute to our pensions fat higher rates, only to receive fewer proportional benefits if we even make it to the absurd minimum retirement age of 63. But, many of us will stick it out, and will therefore receive medi
Open Letter to Members of NYC City Council
Dear Council Members, My name is Nick Bacon. I’m a constituent of District 7. I’m also a city worker and a member of the UFT Executive Board. I understand that the leadership of my organization (the UFT) has been lobbying the City Council to change Administrative Code 12-126. Please und