Support UAW Workers
Across all industries, the labor movement has shown time and time again that when working people stand together and use our collective voices to demand a fair deal and a better future, we are capable of accomplishing great things. Now, our union siblings in the UAW are officially on strike after their employers refused to meet their demands and offer a fair contract. The UAW has played an essential role building the middle class of Michigan, including supporting our members in more fights than anyone can imagine. We unequivocally have their back, just as we stand in solidarity with all workers fighting for what they deserve.
Thanks to everyone who has joined the picket lines and rallies so far. Click here to add your name to the list of supporters: https://uaw.org/action/
Detroit Paras Win New Contract
Congratulations to the Para Educators and Food Service workers who make up the Detroit Federation of Paraprofessionals, AFT Local 2350, on winning a strong new contract with the district. This round of bargaining was particularly tough, with the district administration attempting to move a number of positions out of the bargaining unit and refusing to provide equitable pay increases to other groups.
The local won a grievance resulting in the reclassification of Food Service Assistants to Food Service Workers, reclaiming positions in the bargaining unit. Additionally, the contracts for both bargaining units include wage increases to over $16 an hour, increased holiday pay, off-days with pay, and bonuses. Great work by President Donna Jackson, Secretary-Treasurer Rose Kirtz, and the entire DFP leadership team on sticking with this fight and preserving the jobs of so many hardworking members.
Celebrating David Hecker
Last Thursday, we had a great event at our office celebrating the career of President Emeritus David Hecker. A tremendous array of current and former leaders, staff, community allies, family and friends joined us to honor David and help unveil our new signage naming our office the “David Hecker Building” in recognition of his 27 years devoted to building the AFT Michigan we all know today.
Reading Reform Across America Webinar – September 19
Join this webinar on September 19 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm with Share My Lesson and Albert Shanker Institute to learn how you can implement the latest reading reform goals to deepen literacy support from Ester Quintero, senior fellow at the Albert Shanker Institute for students this year.
Reading Reform Across America, a report released by the Albert Shanker Institute this summer, documents how state legislatures nationwide have responded to these challenges. In this webinar, the report’s authors will describe the findings in ways that will help educators understand what to expect from state legislative action. Educators will also learn what priorities can be implemented without waiting for their state to act.
When you register, you can order free copies of a Special American Educator on Literacy
Click here to register.
Evidence-Based Strategies to Help Students Read Webinar – September 26
Join this webinar with Share My Lesson and Reading Universe to learn about a free new resource with evidence-based strategies and practical guidance to help students learn to read.
In the Evidence-Based Strategies to Help Students Read webinar, first-grade teacher Erika Bryant and Reading Universe senior adviser Kelly Butler discuss how reading instruction in the elementary grades has changed in Mississippi and how all teachers can develop expertise at their own pace through Reading Universe. Unlike other websites, Reading Universe has been built from the start with a cadre of skilled teachers and researchers, and it’s filled with videos of excellent instruction in real classrooms.
Professional Development Workshop
AFT Michigan
Strategies For Setting Measurable Objectives
October 7, 2023
8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
In Person Workshop at AFT Michigan – David Hecker Office
This in-service will focus on the process of developing measurable and well-defined learning objectives that authenticate valid assessments.
Click here to register.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month, recognized from September 15 to October 15, is more than a celebration of Hispanic and Latino culture. It’s an opportunity to educate, to connect, and to cultivate appreciation and understanding.
Recognizing the immense potential of this month, check out Share My Lesson for a comprehensive collection of teaching resources, insightful blogs, and professional development webinars designed for both educators and parents.
The worth of teaching about Hispanic Heritage Month in preK-12 schools and communities is immeasurable. It’s a celebration, a lesson, and a commitment to inclusivity rolled into one. As educators and parents, it’s our duty to ensure the younger generation inherits a world that understands and values the vast tapestry of human culture, with each thread as vital as the next. We hope this collection serves as a starting point in your journey to make Hispanic Heritage Month a memorable and transformative experience for every child.
Contribute to the AFT Michigan PAC Today
AFT Michigan fights for our members, students 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!
Registration is Now Open for Safety in the Workplace and the 2023 Fall Leadership Institute
Registration is open for both our newest six-week short course, Safety in the Workplace, and the 2023 Fall Leadership Institute. Safety in the Workplace begins on September 28th and deep-dives into Environmental, Health, & Safety laws and regulations, workers compensation, and more. The Fall Leadership Institute, running from November 16-18, is a weekend-long conference aimed at providing labor organizers and union leaders with the tools they need to thrive.
CLCS is Hosting Global Women’s Empowerment Event with Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib
The Women Officials Network (WON) Foundation and Global Ties Detroit are proud to present Women’s Empowerment: Morocco to Michigan & Beyond. This panel discussion, moderated by Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, will feature female leaders from around the world. Admission is free but limited, so make sure to register now. The event will be hosted by UM-Dearborn Center for Labor and Community Studies (CLCS) at the Fairlane Center in Dearborn.
Click here for more information and to register.
In solidarity,
Terrence Martin
President
