BRAVO Arthur!! -And Hurray for ABC!! This is how honest thinkers, unionists, lovers of democracy and lives should sound like.
While we all crave to find less things to fight against during such troubled times, we all better understand how our Unity leadership is harmful and why we must confront them with both eyes open.
Actually, it’s an honor that Unity called out ABC. Shows that they are intimidated and nervous about its future. Your alignment with Marianne and the nycretirees is a powerful combination. Unity knows this and is trying to do what it can to prevent your collaboration
I couldn't agree more. They even passed a resolution about it. If I recall correctly, they then censured us during the election for violating their interference resolution. Unity judges everyone. Except themselves, of course. They are Mary Poppins, Practically Perfect In Every Way.
One thing we want our children to be able to do is think carefully and express their opinion The best lessons I had was when I would shut up and listen to students discuss a topic with their own thoughts For unity to ask chapter leaders ,of which I had been one, to be parrots and not think for themselves but just follow the Unity line is unbelievable and shows they are running scared of their members thinking for themselves about policy being forced on them by their union
Thanks Joel. I couldn't agree more. I've had students surprise and persuade me, and I couldn't be more proud when they do. The job of the chapter leader, though, is to represent members. Many members have views that diverge from the Unity line, and more of them standing up can do nothing but strengthen our union.
This column tells it like it is. After more than 13 years of retirement, I'm starting to read more about what's going on in the NYC schools. It's pathetic that so many teachers leave the profession after a few years. If Unity's phony leaders were really doing what they need to do, things wouldn't be that chaotic.
Absolutely. Case in point is Francis Lewis High School, where I worked most of my career and (and still do, albeit part time). It’s the most overcrowded school in the city. As chapter leader, I was able to negotiate an annex for us, and it’s made no difference whatsoever. They talk and talk,, and nothing ever happens.
I am shocked & appalled at Unity’s attempt to suppress Chapter Leaders’ rights to free speech. I was at the Delegate Assembly when Randi sold us all lock, stock & barrel to Bloom-Klein. I wish you luck in this Sisyphean attempt at righting this listing ship.
You can follow and join us in ABC. Some supposed oppositions have been cozying up with Unity and accepting their nonsense. I hope the new health plan is all they say it is, but it's outrageous and unacceptable that they refused to share even the redacted version until it was voted on and passed. They take us for rubes, and we, educators, seem to accept in en masse. I can't even get my mind around it.
Sorry to hear that. They are out there, and they are frequently well-respected by staff. The thing about being Unity is they don't much care how you perform as chapter leader. Just tow the line and you keep your gig even if members dump you.
BRAVO Arthur!! -And Hurray for ABC!! This is how honest thinkers, unionists, lovers of democracy and lives should sound like.
While we all crave to find less things to fight against during such troubled times, we all better understand how our Unity leadership is harmful and why we must confront them with both eyes open.
Thank you Laura.
Democracy not Dictatorship: Pretty ironic when the UFT leadership is pushing a resolution to suppress speech.
Yes, absolutely. Chapter leaders are the last bastion of independence in our union, the only branch Unity's been unable to control.
Actually, it’s an honor that Unity called out ABC. Shows that they are intimidated and nervous about its future. Your alignment with Marianne and the nycretirees is a powerful combination. Unity knows this and is trying to do what it can to prevent your collaboration
I couldn't agree more. They even passed a resolution about it. If I recall correctly, they then censured us during the election for violating their interference resolution. Unity judges everyone. Except themselves, of course. They are Mary Poppins, Practically Perfect In Every Way.
One thing we want our children to be able to do is think carefully and express their opinion The best lessons I had was when I would shut up and listen to students discuss a topic with their own thoughts For unity to ask chapter leaders ,of which I had been one, to be parrots and not think for themselves but just follow the Unity line is unbelievable and shows they are running scared of their members thinking for themselves about policy being forced on them by their union
Thanks Joel. I couldn't agree more. I've had students surprise and persuade me, and I couldn't be more proud when they do. The job of the chapter leader, though, is to represent members. Many members have views that diverge from the Unity line, and more of them standing up can do nothing but strengthen our union.
This column tells it like it is. After more than 13 years of retirement, I'm starting to read more about what's going on in the NYC schools. It's pathetic that so many teachers leave the profession after a few years. If Unity's phony leaders were really doing what they need to do, things wouldn't be that chaotic.
Absolutely. Case in point is Francis Lewis High School, where I worked most of my career and (and still do, albeit part time). It’s the most overcrowded school in the city. As chapter leader, I was able to negotiate an annex for us, and it’s made no difference whatsoever. They talk and talk,, and nothing ever happens.
I am shocked & appalled at Unity’s attempt to suppress Chapter Leaders’ rights to free speech. I was at the Delegate Assembly when Randi sold us all lock, stock & barrel to Bloom-Klein. I wish you luck in this Sisyphean attempt at righting this listing ship.
What can I do to help?
You can follow and join us in ABC. Some supposed oppositions have been cozying up with Unity and accepting their nonsense. I hope the new health plan is all they say it is, but it's outrageous and unacceptable that they refused to share even the redacted version until it was voted on and passed. They take us for rubes, and we, educators, seem to accept in en masse. I can't even get my mind around it.
Arthur from your mouth to Gods ears. Personally, I never met a CL that didn’t tow the Unity line… sadly :(
Sorry to hear that. They are out there, and they are frequently well-respected by staff. The thing about being Unity is they don't much care how you perform as chapter leader. Just tow the line and you keep your gig even if members dump you.
BRAVO, Arthur! You are the embodiment of truth to power! Do NOT be silenced by the heavy, dictatorial hand of Mulgrew.
Thank you Jerry.