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RA delegates poised to craft union policy
March 24, 2004 New York State United Teachers' roots in solidarity, political action and social justice will be on display at its 32nd annual Representative Assembly. The statewide union's policy-making convention will be March 25-27 in Manhattan, where a record number of delegates will rally in support of New York City host locals working without a contract. The theme of this year's convention is "One Tree, Many Branches," reflecting that NYSUT's 500,000 members encompass a range of professions in education and health care. Delegates will consider 116 resolutions on issues relating to health care, education, civil rights, pensions and more. Resolutions are submitted by local unions across the state. If adopted, they chart the course for NYSUT for the next year. One bylaw and five constitutional amendments will be considered. Proposed changes to the NYSUT constitution range from making election standards for delegates and alternates consistent with the Landrum-Griffin Act to providing for a new position on the union's Board representing small local. The union will unveil initiatives in health care and education, including a report that details how public education excellence is deeper and more widespread than anyone - teacher-bashers and education supporters alike - imagined. The report is needed as teacher unions are already being bashed in this election year. The roster of speakers includes author/actor/comedian Bill Cosby, former state Comptroller Carl McCall, state Education Commissioner Richard Mills and U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer. Before the RA, the union holds a local presidents conference to update leaders on school funding, education issues and political mobilization for the November election. School-Related Professional leaders will have workshops on legal issues and advocacy for professional development, while retiree council representatives will discuss computers and building membership. |
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