AFT Michigan’s Queer Caucus Meeting – Oct 16
Thursday, October 16, 2025
4:30-5:30pm via Zoom
Join with other LGBTQIA+ union activists in AFT MI locals to connect and strengthen statewide solidarity as queer workers in these times. Interested in attending? Email staff rep Erin Lavin (elavin@aftmichigan.org) for the zoom link.
Taylor Federation of Teachers Celebrates 75 Years!
Congratulations to the Taylor Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 1085, on 75 tremendous years as a local union. On Friday, TFT members and families gathered to celebrate the local’s history and future. The TFT has long played a prominent role in AFT Michigan and the broader labor movement, including producing several statewide leaders. Congratulations and thank you to all TFT members, past and present–here’s to 75 more!
‘No Kings Day’ – Saturday, Oct. 18
As the Trump administration escalates its attacks on our rights, including our basic civil rights and our rights to vote and to govern ourselves, millions are rising up again to say: “No Kings.” On Saturday, Oct. 18, the growing No Kings movement will take to the streets once more to demand dignity, defend our communities and reject authoritarianism in all its forms.
Volunteer with Invest in MI Kids
We need to increase revenue for our schools and it’s going to take going to the people to do it. Join the challenge to get 3 of your friends circulating with you by October 16! Whether they take 1 sheet or 10 sheets, every circulator counts in winning this ballot initiative. Ask a friend or family member today, and have them sign up to volunteer here to help us get this on the ballot in 2026.
Happy National School Lunch Week!
It’s National School Lunch Week!
Every child deserves a healthy meal– and the chance to learn, grow, and thrive without stigma or hunger.
This week, we’re celebrating the power of school nutrition professionals who make that possible everyday!
Call: Stop the Shutdown and the Cuts to Working Families
As the shutdown continues so does the rent, mortgage and bills for America’s workers.
The bills keep coming for the workers who provide health care for veterans, help Americans with their Social Security benefits, inspect our food and medicines, and keep our airports safe.
The bills keep coming for contract workers—including custodians and cafeteria workers—who don’t have the assurance of back pay. Instead of chatting with their kids about Halloween costumes, parents will be forced to explain why the lights aren’t on. People who need medication like insulin may choose to ration it so they can afford to keep the water running.
And all of this pain is happening because the Trump administration is threatening to double or triple people’s health care premiums by refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act’s tax credits.
Congress needs to hear from working people right now: Fund the government. Fix the health care crisis. Put working people first.Make a call right now.
If you’ve already made a call, click here to send an email too.
THIS TUESDAY: Supporting ELLs with AI Translation Tools
AI can be a game-changer for multilingual learners, but only when used thoughtfully. Join us Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m. EDT for The AI Educator Brain on Multilingual Classrooms: Supporting ELLs with AI Translation Tools.
Whether you’re a newcomer to multilingual classrooms or a seasoned ELL teacher, this session offers practical ways to pair tech with empathy and expertise.
Don’t Miss Author Jason Reynolds—Live Oct. 19!
On Sunday, Oct. 19, at 6 p.m. EDT, join award-winning author Jason Reynolds and AFT President Randi Weingarten for an unforgettable conversation on the power of storytelling, listening and human connection. Register now.
Reynolds—known for his captivating, lyrical storytelling—is a celebrated voice in young adult and middle grade literature. His books spark honest discussions about race, identity, justice and the power of words.
In this special Share My Lesson live event, we’ll explore how educators and families can use literature to engage students in critical thinking and self-discovery, and how everyday stories can support reflection and inspiration—in the classroom and beyond.
This conversation is part of StoryCorps’ Great Thanksgiving Listen, a national movement to record and preserve intergenerational stories. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect storytelling, classroom practice and civic engagement.
Tell us how you’re #PublicSchoolProud
We’re bringing back our Public School Proud campaign to celebrate the everyday moments that make public schools the heart of our communities. Whether it’s science fairs, literacy nights or football games under the lights, these moments remind us that public schools don’t just educate; they unite us and give every child a shot at a better life. Every week, we will highlight great things happening in public schools. You can share what makes you public school proud.
New Issue of AFT Health Care
Check out the new issue of AFT Health Care
CLCS UM-Dearborn Fall Leadership Institute
CLCS annual Fall Leadership Institute will be held on November 20-22 at UM-Dearborn, Fairlane Center South. The Fall Leadership Institute offers workshops for everyone – from seasoned leaders and those aspiring for leadership. This conference has extra course offerings especially geared for those interested in becoming leaders in their union and the labor movement in general. Participants from all genders and all cultural or ethnic backgrounds are welcome to attend.
For more information and to register click here.
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!
Learn more about the trauma counseling program by visiting members.aft.org/members/login
Free Webinar: Options for Student Loan Borrowers in SAVE Plan
Savi, the loan education and assistance program offered through the Union Plus Student Debt Navigator, is here to help identify savings and forgiveness programs for student loan borrowers. The repayment landscape is ever-changing and Savi’s free monthly webinars break down the latest student loan policy updates, show union members how to find and apply for savings and forgiveness options, and include a live Q&A session.
Their next webinar is taking place on Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. ET and will focus on the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan as interest resumes for student loan borrowers.
The future of the SAVE Plan remains uncertain, since the plan has been on hold since spring 2024 due to a federal court injunction, and a final court decision is still pending. In the meantime, interest is now being added to loan balances for nearly 8 million borrowers, though forbearances that pause payments remain in effect.
Borrowers can explore their options during the Oct. 21 webinar. Register here.
Learn more about how Savi can support your members by visiting the Union Plus Student Debt Navigator.
In solidarity,
Terrence Martin
President
