Thanks for another powerful gem of column Arthur! By connecting the many dots, we can't deny, that it's not just Big$ we need to protect our union from, but some of our own most prominent union leaders -like Michael Mulgrew- who's been busy stabbing us in the back, and who (time will tell) has been using UFT for his own wealth advancement. Yes, Mulgrew and his Unity BFFs are a detriment to our lives and the very meaning of union. And as the real troops on the ground we must keep sharing-sharing-sharing!!
I am not on the executive board, but I do know, at least in Queens, that the hard working employees in that office, the foundational source of answers for members, are experts in their fields whose focus is on contract enforcement and member support.
Well, we have your word for that. My years of experience as Queens chapter leader suggest the quality varies. And the one person who improved it is gone.
As a retiree AND employed by the UFT, your broad-brush statement, “Paid jobs in the UFT are still held by Unity members, and are dispensed on the basis of loyalty, not ability”, is not accurate- in my opinion. I am REALLY good at my job as a field liaison and would hope that I was offered my position because of my knowledge and expertise. Even in the business world, prior to teaching, my connections may have opened doors to opportunities, but it was always what I knew, how I performed, and recommendations of past employers that got me the job. Who you know only goes so far. I am surrounded by experts who go above and beyond to guide and support our union members every day. Just sayin’
I did not say that competency was disqualifying. I said that loyalty was the requirement. You're showing it by telling me about all the experts, and blatantly ignoring what's laid out in the post. I have watched people tell obvious lies and spout preposterous arguments to garner favor at Executive Board. I have repeatedly heard people spout fawning praise of Mulgrew to do the same.
As a chapter leader, I always had to caution members--call UFT, but if you don't get someone good to answer, get back to me and I'll find you someone. And I've also seen the most competent and thoughtful person I've even met from your caucus be banished from Queens Rep to who knows what.
Thanks for another powerful gem of column Arthur! By connecting the many dots, we can't deny, that it's not just Big$ we need to protect our union from, but some of our own most prominent union leaders -like Michael Mulgrew- who's been busy stabbing us in the back, and who (time will tell) has been using UFT for his own wealth advancement. Yes, Mulgrew and his Unity BFFs are a detriment to our lives and the very meaning of union. And as the real troops on the ground we must keep sharing-sharing-sharing!!
Thanks Laura. I'm on it, and I should have something new tomorrow.
Thank you for another great post
Joined UFT in 1961
That’s a bit harsh coming from someone who doesn’t even know me. Yes, she is brilliant and missed, but it takes a village.
Good point. I don't know you at all. And good, bad or indifferent, no one at all in the Queens office measured up to Amy, ever.
I am not on the executive board, but I do know, at least in Queens, that the hard working employees in that office, the foundational source of answers for members, are experts in their fields whose focus is on contract enforcement and member support.
Well, we have your word for that. My years of experience as Queens chapter leader suggest the quality varies. And the one person who improved it is gone.
As a retiree AND employed by the UFT, your broad-brush statement, “Paid jobs in the UFT are still held by Unity members, and are dispensed on the basis of loyalty, not ability”, is not accurate- in my opinion. I am REALLY good at my job as a field liaison and would hope that I was offered my position because of my knowledge and expertise. Even in the business world, prior to teaching, my connections may have opened doors to opportunities, but it was always what I knew, how I performed, and recommendations of past employers that got me the job. Who you know only goes so far. I am surrounded by experts who go above and beyond to guide and support our union members every day. Just sayin’
I did not say that competency was disqualifying. I said that loyalty was the requirement. You're showing it by telling me about all the experts, and blatantly ignoring what's laid out in the post. I have watched people tell obvious lies and spout preposterous arguments to garner favor at Executive Board. I have repeatedly heard people spout fawning praise of Mulgrew to do the same.
As a chapter leader, I always had to caution members--call UFT, but if you don't get someone good to answer, get back to me and I'll find you someone. And I've also seen the most competent and thoughtful person I've even met from your caucus be banished from Queens Rep to who knows what.
So pardon me if I'm doubtful.