WHEREAS, May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, has its roots in the United States and is now recognized in dozens of countries around the world as a day to honor and fight for the rights of workers;

WHEREAS, the significance of May Day to the labor movement began with the movement for an eight-hour workday that led to a general strike in Chicago on May 1, 1886, and the date was invested with new significance in 2006 when massive rallies were held for immigration reform, and in recent years as labor unions and immigrant advocacy organizations in New York City have participated together as natural allies in May Day demonstrations; and

WHEREAS, continuing this proud history, the Labor Rights, Immigrant Rights, Jobs for All coalition will hold a rally at City Hall at 5 p.m., Thursday, May 1, 2014, to call for fair contracts and wages for all working people; and

WHEREAS, the rally is also in support of other goals backed by the United Federation of Teachers, including implementation of free universal prekindergarten in New York City and passage of the New York State DREAM Act, which would allow qualified undocumented immigrant students to receive financial assistance for college; and

WHEREAS, NYC public sector workers who are all working under expired contracts are fighting for and deserve just contracts that show respect, fairness and dignity for all workers and their professions;  therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the United Federation of Teachers will fully support and participate in the May Day 2014 Labor Rights, Immigrant Rights and Jobs for All rally.