Members of NYSUT's K-12 and higher education affiliates were on hand at the 38th annual legislative caucus sponsored by the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican and Asian Legislators.

Educators from United University Professions at SUNY and CUNY's Professional Staff Congress participated in "The Role of Public Post-Secondary Education in Workforce Development Opportunities for Latinos and African Americans." The higher education workshop was hosted by the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement.

Michael Mulgrew, chief operating officer of the United Federation of Teachers in New York City, participated in a workshop on mayoral control of schools. Other workshop topics included the state budget proposal, civil and labor rights in the workplace, student achievement and immigration-family reunification.

Black and Puerto Rican lawmakers formed the caucus in 1966 to demand an equal share of power and position in the Legislature's leadership structure and assignments on major committees.

The annual caucus weekend offers New Yorkers an opportunity to network with influential minority community members, lawmakers, business owners and more. A business/career and craft exhibition fair features information on different state agencies. NYSUT hosted a booth at the event.

This year's caucus theme was "Yes we can! The Possibilities & Challenges of a New Era."

— Clarisse Butler Banks