The Power of UNITY: A Vision for Our Union’s Future
Moving Forward Together: Hundreds of Unity Caucus members come together to set a course to move our union forward
Together, the members of the Unity caucus, have identified the core values that we want to define and guide our caucus and our union.
Member Driven Unionism is not merely a cornerstone; it is the bedrock of our discussions. True leadership is about empowering each individual to realize their rights and their worth. It is about galvanizing all members to fight for these rights with unwavering determination. In our union, leadership is not a top-down directive but a shared responsibility that demands every member take an active role in our collective struggle.
Collective Experience is our unyielding guide. The collective experiences of our caucus members armed us with invaluable knowledge and demonstrated that change is not just possible but inevitable when we stand and fight together. This is particularly true in times of DOE chaos and turmoil. The lessons learned from past battles and victories are not just a roadmap but a mandate for our future endeavors. Experience has taught us that unity is our invincible strength and that together, we can face any obstacle.
Organizing and Activism are the relentless actions behind our words. We are committed to never ceasing our fight for higher wages, better working conditions, and a greater quality of life. Activism is the lifeblood of our union; it is the force that transforms our ideals into reality. In unity, we fight for dignity, equity, and a brighter future for all members.
We have reaffirmed our values and our unbreakable commitment to each other. As we move forward, these core values of member driven unionism, collective experience, and organizing and activism will continue to be our guiding forces. They are the foundation upon which we will continue to build a strong, and resilient union. Together, we will keep fighting for a future where every member is empowered, every voice is heard, and every right is upheld.
UNITY’S Campaign Platform: Addressing Key Issues for a Better Future
We are proud to share the three critical issues our caucus members identified as the platform for our campaign and activism at our caucus summit on September 29. This platform was further modified and then ratified by hundreds of Unity members at our meeting on October 16. We, as a caucus, believe that these issues are essential to improving the lives of UFT members and ensuring a fair and supportive working environment. We must continue to build on the groundwork we have already started in these areas.
1. Fixing Tier Six
The current Tier Six retirement plan imposes an unreasonably high minimum age for retirement, impacting the financial security and quality of life of UFT members. All UFT members deserve to retire with dignity, and there should be no difference in the equity between the tiers.
Lowering the Age of Retirement: We need to lower the retirement age for Tier 6 members to age 55 after 30 years of service. Many members have planned their financial futures based on retiring at a reasonable age. The high minimum retirement age under Tier Six must be lowered to avoid disrupting these plans or creating financial strain on any UFT member.
Lower Contributions for Fairness and Equity: We need to lower the contribution rate for UFT members in Tier 6.The Tier Six plan must reflect the years of service and dedication UFT members have given.
2. Improving Working Conditions
We have identified several critical areas that need immediate action to improve working conditions for UFT members.
Increase Salary and Wages:
Securing Compensation Reflective of our Worth: Income across all titles should truly reflect the importance, work, and experience of all members. Together, we will relentlessly fight for fairness, dignity, respect, equity, and a more hopeful future, with our sights firmly set on the next round of negotiations.
Addressing Curriculum and Training Issues:
Importance of Appropriate Curricula: Teachers need well-structured and relevant curricula to deliver high-quality education.
Necessary Training and Support: Teachers must receive sufficient training, support, and resources for effective implementation.
Fighting Micromanagement and Low Morale:
Effects of Micromanagement: Persistent micromanagement by supervisors is detrimental to morale, creating a stressful work environment. All UFT members deserve to be given professional respect and work in an environment free of micromanagement.
Need for Professional Autonomy: As professionals we need the autonomy to perform our duties without undue interference and to be trusted as the experts we are.
Creating a Supportive Environment: We need supportive work environments where we are treated as respected and valued members of our workplaces, and our needs are met.
Ensuring Safety and Behavioral Interventions:
Ensuring Safe Working Environments: Safety in the workplace continues to be a top priority for us. We must work to ensure all members are safe at work and have access to the resources and supports they need.
Consistent and Appropriate Responses to Behavior: We need consistent and appropriate interventions and supports for behavioral infractions. Addressing safety concerns promptly will foster a positive school culture where everyone feels safe and respected.
Creating a Respectful Environment: Social emotional and mental health access should be available at all workplaces to help support the work being done; ensuring productive outcomes for behavioral issues and creating a positive school culture.
3. Maintaining and improving the health and well-being of our members and their families
Access to affordable healthcare is a fundamental right, and we will fight to protect this benefit, and work to expand and improve the benefits UFT members receive. We have an obligation to safeguard the health and well-being of UFT members.
Improving Dental Coverage: Members have spoken and are asking for expanded dental coverage. We will be working to make this happen.
Expanding Access to Mental Health Supports: UFT members and their families need to have access to help and support when they need it. Mental health care is health care.
Fighting Back Against Rising Healthcare Costs: We will continue to push for transparency on provider and insurance costs to reduce price gouging and help maintain the best benefits for our members at the lowest costs.
Maintaining Financial Security: Premium-free health insurance eliminates a significant financial burden for UFT members, allowing them to allocate resources to other essential needs.
Increasing Health and Well-being: Quality health insurance ensures that members and their families have access to necessary medical care without prohibitive costs, leading to better health outcomes.
Pursue Paid Family Leave: Improving our current paid parental leave and securing paid family leave to care for sick family members.
By addressing these critical issues, our campaign is committed to forging a brighter future for all our members. Regardless of title or chapter, whether school-based, non-school-based, DOE, or non-DOE, we stand united. Through collective action and unwavering dedication, we will harness our union power to achieve these goals and beyond.
As we actively listen to UFT members, we will continually expand this platform, aiming to significantly elevate the quality of life for everyone in our union. Let’s move forward with optimism and determination, knowing that our collective efforts will lead to a better tomorrow for all.