ALBANY, N.Y. Sept. 28, 2017 — In its decision to hear Janus v. AFSCME, the U.S. Supreme Court is acceding to the policy goals of corporate CEOs, the wealthiest 1 percent and political extremists who have been funding these attacks on ordinary working people for decades, NYSUT President Andy Pallotta said today.
“This case is a blatant attempt to take away the freedom of working people to join unions and speak up for themselves on the job,” Pallotta said. “New Yorkers, fortunately, have in their DNA an understanding of the critical role that unions play in growing and protecting the middle class, and providing real economic security for families. NYSUT members see the value of being part of a powerful union — one that gives them a seat at the table and a strong voice in Albany to help them fight for competitive salaries and benefits, protect their retirements and defend their professions.
“Unions have — and always will be — the best vehicle working people have to take a stand against the wealthy and powerful who have rigged the economy in their favor. At NYSUT, we plan to stand strong and stand together against this legal threat to our families, public services and communities.”
New York State United Teachers is a statewide union with more than 600,000 members in education, human services and health care. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, the National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.