Caring for people in need and promoting equity were top of mind in the five resolutions UFT delegates approved at the Delegate Assembly on Nov. 19.

In one resolution, the union expressed its sympathy and solidarity with the people of Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa on Oct. 28. The UFT will work with local and international partners to support humanitarian relief efforts, including through donations to relief organizations and the UFT Disaster Relief Fund; initiate a collection of nonperishable food items, toiletries and clothing; and advocate for aid to support Jamaica’s recovery.

In another resolution, the Delegate Assembly resolved that the union will work with the American Federation of Teachers to support and help fund the installation of a student shower and clothing closet at Escuela Elemental Dr. Julio J. Henna, a school in an impoverished community in Puerto Rico.

The UFT delegates also approved a resolution reaffirming the union’s solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and condemning all forms of discrimination. The delegates pledged to continue to educate UFT members, advocate for comprehensive and inclusive curricula and promote policies that ensure safe and equitable teaching and learning environments.

In another resolution, the UFT expressed its support for the Women’s National Basketball Players Association and pay equity, racial justice and fair collective bargaining in women’s sports. The resolution called on corporate sponsors, team owners and sports leagues to ensure just investments in women’s sports, transparency in revenue-sharing and fair treatment of all athletes.

In the final resolution, the UFT committed to advocating for early childhood curricula supported by child development and research on how young children learn. The resolution also supported unstructured playtime for 3-K and pre-K students and the right to agency, active exploration and age-appropriate experiential learning in every grade.