new teacher q & a

At a New Teacher Orientation I attended, I heard something about the union’s political action. What does the union do and how can I get involved?

Oct 15, 2009 5:02 PM

A: The UFT takes an active interest in government policies that affect public education and the economic lives of working families. That’s why the union engages in political action about such things as budget priorities, school safety, pension benefits, tenure laws — and much more. It is especially important that our voices are heard at a time when so many are ready to attack teacher unions and public education.

With an election coming on Nov. 3, you can do your part in political action simply by voting for UFT-endorsed candidates, encouraging others to vote for these candidates, and staffing the union’s phone banks before Election Day (check with your chapter leader or call your UFT borough office). At other times, you may need to attend rallies and respond to action alerts with e-mails, faxes or phone calls. When you are ready to do more, try participating in voter registration drives and meeting with local and state legislators during lobby days.

Of course, it takes money to pay for phone banks, hold rallies, mail literature, organize action alerts and lobby legislators. By law, that money can’t come from union dues. So a very important way you can get involved in political action is by making a voluntary contribution to COPE, the union’s Committee on Political Education. Ask your chapter leader for a COPE card so your dollars can start working for you and your students.