Federal teacher union leader rebukes politicians, says get involved
The president of the American Federation of Teachers in El Paso Saturday rebuked state and national politicians whose policies she says are hurting students, encouraging educators to make an impact in the current political climate.
Randi Weingarten’s riling keynote address, part of the annual Texas AFT Convention in Downtown El Paso, was met by cheers and standing ovations from educators.
"It has been a really hard road, and trying to sugarcoat that would be dishonest," Weingarten said to hundreds of Texas educators from all over the state.
She sharply criticized Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and President Donald Trump.
Weingarten did not hold back on her disappointment in national and state elected officials. She chided Abbott for his upcoming special session and his handling of the "bathroom bill," saying the move was about power instead of helping Texas schools and students.
"You're trying to demonize kids who are trans and prevent them from going to the bathroom? How dare you?" Weingarten said.
Supporters of the bill had argued that transgender people should use public restrooms based on their biological sex, not their gender identity.
Weingarten also addressed the Texas Legislature's and Trump's increased support for school choice and vouchers, which would allow parents to use public school dollars to send their children to private schools.
"This is the first administration to say 'hell no' to public education, and we're going to say 'hell no' to them," Weingarten said.
Supporters of vouchers argue they give parents and students more choices and promote competition, therefore driving up the quality and diversity of programs offered.
Despite her expressed frustration at elected officials, Weingarten said educators play Federal teacher union leader rebukes politicians, says get involved: