For years, New York State United Teachers and the National Education Association of New York have shared a common mission: promoting the economic, personal and professional lives of their members and securing the highest possible quality education for all students.
At this, NYSUT's 34th annual Representative Assembly, those common missions could unite as delegates will consider amending NYSUT's constitution and bylaws to allow the unification of the two organizations.
"This convention will mark the beginning of true solidarity in our state," said Tony Bifaro, who oversees the union's annual convention. "In practice, we have long spoken on the same topics. This is a chance to have one voice promoting all schools, higher education and health care institutions."
If approved, the unification takes effect Sept. 1.
An impressive list of speakers will include Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY.
Delegates, who are elected by each local union, will also consider 118 resolutions to chart the union's course for the next year as well as 16 resolutions for reaffirmation. Topics range from fighting for adequate funding for public education, to requiring school nurses in every school building, and defending defined pensions against campaigns to replace them with private accounts. Among the many social justice issues are resolutions directing the union to encourage fair trade practices with coffee, tea and chocolate and to oppose Wal-Mart's anti-labor and other discriminatory practices.
Delegates will also consider a state dues increase and a dues equalization formula for members of former NEA/NY locals.
There will also be special meetings to elect members of the Board of Directors in Election Districts 31 and 33.
Important convention info
In this mailing you should find your RA identification card. You must bring this card with you to exchange for your RA credentials. If your card is not included, or has an error, call (800) 342-9810, ext. 6226 immediately. Local presidents and members of the NYSUT Board of Directors also need these cards when registering for the pre-RA Local and Retiree Presidents' Conference.
You will also receive a Hurricane Katrina Award Card depicting your level of relief contribution, if applicable. Delegates from locals that contributed to the relief efforts will receive one of four pins.
By now you should have received your hotel information and confirmation number from NYSUT or your hotel. If you have not received any housing information, contact the NYSUT Housing Desk at (800) 342-9810, ext. 6688 or 6699 immediately.
Highlights, changes
On Thursday, May 4, the Journalism awards and Meet the Editors' Roundtable will be held from 6 p.m to 7:30 p.m. It will NOT be held Saturday. Refunds will be provided those who can no longer attend due to the scheduling change. Please call (800) 342-9810, ext. 6280 immediately if you can no longer attend. The session will be in Highland D/E/F/G.