NYSUT's social justice agenda is broad and does not shy away from complex, weighty concerns.
"With today's political landscape, it is more important than ever that our members are educated about key issues and can help us advocate in their communities so that we can continue to improve living and working conditions both locally and nationally," said NYSUT Vice President Paul Pecorale, whose office oversees the union's social justice initiative.
To that end, this year NYSUT launched its "Why in 5" campaign for social justice. Resources include a Web page and five wallet-sized cards members can use as conversation starters on significant social justice topics. Each of the brightly colored cards features a quote on one side and five related facts on the back.
The first five topics covered in the campaign include racial equality; an end to hunger and poverty; women's rights; Fair Trade; and wage equity.
NYSUT will soon release five more topics in the series: child labor, educational justice, immigration reform, labor solidarity and LGBTQ solidarity.
"From social media to participation at forums, our members have used many creative ways to bring their activism and advocacy to their local communities," Pecorale said. "This campaign is another tool members can use and yet another way we can suport them to be the union."
For more info or to download a set of "Why in 5" cards, visit www.nysut.org/Whyin5SJ.