A dark day

Shouts echoed from both ends of the hallowed hall. Amidst confusion, hands rose, first hesitantly and then in a rush. A mass exodus followed with lights dimmed and finally shut. Across the Capitol, television screens went from chaotic activity to darkness to a still photo of an empty chamber. Now, there was nothing but silence. Dostoyevsky? Hugo? Brecht? No, sadly, the New York State Senate, June 8, 2009.

Much has been said about that day earlier this month. Some commented in anger and some in jest — most pointed to a significant flaw in governance in New York state. Even if the facts could be sorted out, there is no reason to take sides or place blame on either party. The sad reality is that much that is needed to be done may go unfinished, and many who depend on state government for advocacy and protection may be left to fend for themselves.

One irony that should not escape us is the significant role in this governmental breakdown played by a billionaire who opposed taxing the wealthy. While grassroots union-centered lobby efforts such as NYSUT's VOTE-COPE and activist groups such as ACORN, AQE, and CFE are taken to task for activating working New Yorkers to advocate for themselves and the least fortunate in our state, the media seems to accept — without challenge — the undue influence of the super rich.

Earlier this month, we saw the results of that influence and we know too well who will suffer the consequences.

Justice

As I consider NYSUT's advocacy during this tumultuous year, near the top of the list — for me and, I know, for many of you — is the union's commitment to advocating for justice. That commitment runs through our daily work and manifests itself in myriad ways: in relentlessly pursuing the ending of the achievement gap; in our support for farmworker rights and dignity for all students; in our leadership role in the New York State Labor-Religion Coalition and other advocacy groups; and in our efforts to inspire new generations of students to make the world a better place.

Advocating for justice through education is an enduring and significant part of our union's mission. It is embodied in the groundbreaking partnership launched last fall between NYSUT and the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Social Justice. The result of this partnership was "Speak Up, Speak Out," a series of lesson plans for grades 4, 8 and 11 developed by New York educators. These plans are aligned with New York state standards and evolve from RFK's legacy of social justice activism. They were distributed to teachers around the state and continue to be available at www.nysut.org/rfk.

Building on the excitement and interest generated by the RFK lessons, NYSUT is announcing a second phase in the "Speak Up, Speak Out" initiative.

We are seeking to create an online center of high-quality, peer-reviewed lesson plans intended to increase student understanding of justice issues and to inspire students to become active and engaged citizens. This online center will concentrate on justice advocacy and its place in American and world cultures.

I know such lessons are already being taught around our state in a variety of disciplines and grade levels — from social studies lessons on individuals who battled poverty and racism to science lessons on the environmental value of recycling to literature lessons on the individual as an instigator for social change.

I urge you to shine a light on the wonderful work you do by sharing your lessons through our "Speak Up, Speak Out" Web-based initiative. From beginner to seasoned veteran and across every level, this project seeks to combine our mission as scholars and educators with a passion for improving the world we live in.

The report on pages 20-21 of this issue tells you more about how to participate.

'Say Yes'

One such project that seeks to combine education, justice advocacy and scholarly performance is under way in Syracuse: "Say Yes to Education."

On a visit to schools in Syracuse, accompanied by leaders from the National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers, I was privileged to observe how that district has started incorporating this program into its day-to-day operation.

New York Teacher editor Sylvia Saunders (read the story) does a great job describing the program: a public-private partnership designed to help struggling students at every level, increase graduation rates and send many Syracuse graduates to college, tuition-free.

"Say Yes" puts resources behind programs designed to help overcome barriers that have kept many students from achieving academic success — barriers such as poverty, inadequate health care, lack of access to legal services, and inadequate housing.

Sound familiar? It should. It's what NYSUT has been championing since making ending the achievement gap an organizational priority.

I am particularly proud of Syracuse TA President Anne Marie Voutsinas and her leadership team. They have been instrumental in — and publicly recognized for — helping to make "Say Yes" work. The Syracuse local is a real-life response to those who falsely claim that unions are obstructionist.

Reflect

At times, the sea of chaos that swirls around us seems too overwhelming. In those times, it's important to look back at our efforts — your efforts — to focus on what is really important: seeking justice for our members and those we serve. When we do look back at our efforts and accomplishments, it should give rise to an even greater willingness to look ahead!