In a passionate address, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten told delegates, “We have a fight on our hands.”
At the AFT-Oregon 2025 Convention on Friday May 9th, Weingarten highlighted the work AFT and locals throughout the country are doing to fight for public schools that are safe and welcoming for all; for academic freedom; for dignified retirements; for an economy that benefits all; and for equitable access to healthcare.
Randi praised educators for the work they are doing in classrooms every day to teach reason, critical thinking, and honest history, and to build hope over fear.
“You are a critical part of our communities that fights to protect our kids, our schools and our democracy.”
Weingarten congratulated recent, hard-fought union victories – specifically applauding the NYSUT-backed executive proposal for bell-to-bell restrictions on cellphones in schools as revolutionary.
