Professional learning, political action and school-based organizing were among the topics discussed at the Manhattan paraprofessionals meet and greet at UFT headquarters on Sept. 16. About 60 paraprofessionals, including members in their first year and veteran paraprofessionals, gathered to network and meet their union representatives. Among them was Gabrielle Gregory, a paraprofessional representative at P94, a District 75 program in Manhattan. Gregory said she attends every UFT paraprofessional meeting she can and passes on information at her school to build her colleagues’ relationship with their union. “The relationship helps with morale,” she said. “There’s a level of support there that makes paraprofessionals feel capable and motivated.” Paraprofessionals Chapter Chairperson Priscilla Castro stressed the importance of her members coming together in campaigns such as the ongoing fight for the $10,000 annual “RESPECT check” for paraprofessionals. “We must advocate together,” she said. “That’s how we improve our working conditions. When we fight, we win.”