AFT threatens 'safety strikes' in school reopening talks
The American Federation of Teachers adopted a resolution denouncing “unsafe and unsound plans” or “the faulty implementation of plans.
The American Federation of Teachers called Tuesday for “safety strikes” as “a last resort” if negotiations over reopening schools don't meet demands for keeping educators healthy and safe amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Union President Randi Weingarten delivered that battle cry during an address to union members, as Congress begins negotiations over a fresh tranche of federal aid expected to provide at least $70 billion to boost K-12 education.
“Let’s be clear: Just as we have done with our health care workers, we will fight on all fronts for the safety of our students and their educators,” Weingarten said in prepared remarks on Tuesday. “But if authorities don’t protect the safety and health of those we represent and those we serve, as our executive council voted last week, nothing is off the table — not advocacy or protests, negotiations, grievances or lawsuits, or, if necessary and authorized by a local union, as a last resort, safety strikes.”Weingarten said 76 percent of her union's members polled in June said they were comfortable returning to school buildings with "proper safeguards," before the virus started to spread more rapidly in the U.S. and President Donald Trump, as well as Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, began "reckless ‘open or else’ threats."
“Now they’re afraid and angry," Weingarten said. "Many are quitting, retiring or writing their wills. Parents are afraid and angry, too.” CONTINUE READING: AFT threatens 'safety strikes' in school reopening talks - POLITICO