Washington DC, July 16-20 -The struggle against genocide in Gaza continued at this year’s convention as a small group from AFT for Palestine grew from five to more than 60 members and raised issues about torture of medical personnel in Gaza and attacks on teachers in the U.S. who speak up. A Progressive Labor Party member shared literature from our “Solidarity not Silence” campaign in Maryland and spoke about U.S. imperialism and the control of oil in discussions with the caucus. As has been usual at these conferences the union president, Randi Weingarten, and her “microphone goon squad” worked hard to squelch speakers calling for justice. Even getting to the mic to offer amendments was difficult but several sharp statements were made. One graduate student from a New England University, who was determined to make it to the mic, spoke and spoke  passionately about the genocide of Palestineans in Gaza. He chanted “Workers of the World, Unite!" Weingarten was forced to tell him “We have to talk.” 

The overarching theme of the conference leadership was to build support for the Democratic Party. Going beyond just asking delegates to VOTE, Weingarten urged teachers to spend their time canvassing for candidates.  Meanwhile resolutions seeking even mild improvements in curriculum and even environmental issues like “clean air in classrooms” were marginalized. Getting more dues paying members is also a priority for the AFT which is seeking to organize hospital nurses even as the union support for school nurse issues is weak. 

Progressive Labor Party has led work among teachers in New York City, Chicago, Maryland, New Jersey and Boston. We will continue to build our leadership as we prepare for the next convention in Portland Oregon in 2028.