Detroit Federation of Teachers Ratifies New Contract
Congratulations to the Detroit Federation of Teachers, AFT 231, on ratifying a historic new collective bargaining agreement. The DFT dramatically improved job security for their members by creating contract rights around discipline and discharge and reduction in force, which had previously been stripped away. They won payroll dues deduction, a fair evaluation procedure and substantial pay increases. The DFT also created several new benefits, including a commitment to create private space for nursing mothers, adequate recess time and the addition of gender-neutral bathrooms. All of this was accomplished prior to the expiration of the expiring contract, ensuring no lag of members’ rights and peace of mind to start the new school year.
AFT Great Lakes ULI
We had a great group of leaders attend this year’s Great Lakes Union Leadership Institute in Wisconsin. Members came from Detroit, Dearborn, MSU, U of M, and Van Dyke met fellow activists from around the region and learned skills ranging from bargaining and grievance handling to meeting facilitation and strategic planning. Thank you for your commitment to developing your leadership abilities and building strong unions!
Contribute to the AFT Michigan PAC Today
AFT Michigan fights for our members, students, patients and communities all year round and we need your help. Can you donate $1 a week to aid us in this fight? Please visit the AFT Michigan website to contribute and make a big difference in protecting public education and building a better Michigan future!
Order AFT New Member Organizing Materials
AFT members unite to fight for real solutions because we understand that when we band together at work and in our communities, we can create a better life for all. Together, we’re fighting the extremists who want to destroy public education, dismantle our democracy, defund public services, decimate healthcare and demonize the vulnerable—and we’re standing up to the privatizers who are more concerned about profits than people.
The greater our numbers, the greater our voice and power. We’re now 1.75 million members strong—and growing! With 118 new units organized since June 2023, we’re now the second-largest healthcare union and the largest higher education union.
To help you continue growing and gaining power, we’ve refreshed our organizing materials. Order today at go.aft.org/AFTmaterials.
Materials are available year-round. Whenever you are planning an organizing push, union event or other mobilizing opportunity, you can select the resources you need, including organizing brochures that show prospective members how to amplify their voice, a Value of Belonging poster that highlights our accomplishments, pocket calendars, and professional learning options and benefits brochures that reinforce our day-to-day support for our members.
Place your order and spread the word: We’re creating a better life for all!
In solidarity,
Terrence Martin
President
