key term - American Federation of Teachers (AFT)

Definition

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is a national labor union representing teachers, school-related personnel, and higher education faculty across the United States. Established in 1916, the AFT advocates for educational reforms, better working conditions, and the professional interests of its members while also engaging in political activities to influence policy decisions related to education.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFT represents over 1.7 million members, including K-12 teachers, higher education faculty, and public service workers.
2. The union engages in collective bargaining to negotiate contracts that address salaries, benefits, job security, and working conditions for its members.
3. The AFT is actively involved in political advocacy, supporting candidates and policies that promote public education funding and educational reforms.
4. In addition to educational issues, the AFT addresses broader social justice concerns, including equity in education and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities.
5. The AFT often collaborates with other unions and organizations to strengthen their advocacy efforts for public education and labor rights on a national level.

Review Questions

• How does the American Federation of Teachers influence educational policies at local and national levels?
  • The American Federation of Teachers influences educational policies through collective bargaining, political advocacy, and grassroots organizing. By negotiating contracts that ensure fair wages and working conditions for teachers, the AFT directly impacts local education systems. Additionally, the union engages in national political campaigns to support legislation that promotes public education funding and reforms, making their voice crucial in shaping educational policies.
• What are the main objectives of the AFT when it comes to advocating for its members' rights?
  • The main objectives of the AFT include securing fair compensation, improving working conditions, enhancing professional development opportunities, and ensuring job security for educators. The union works diligently to negotiate contracts that reflect these goals while also addressing broader issues such as equitable access to quality education for all students. By pursuing these objectives, the AFT seeks to elevate the profession of teaching and advocate for the rights of educators nationwide.
• Evaluate the impact of the American Federation of Teachers on social justice issues beyond traditional educational concerns.
  • The American Federation of Teachers plays a significant role in advocating for social justice issues that extend beyond traditional educational concerns. By addressing inequities in education funding and promoting policies that support marginalized communities, the AFT connects its mission with broader movements for social change. The union's commitment to equity includes initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic barriers that affect students' educational experiences, thus demonstrating how teacher unions can influence not just educational policy but also societal structures that impact diverse populations.

Related terms

National Education Association (NEA):

The NEA is the largest professional organization and labor union representing teachers and education support professionals in the United States.

Collective Bargaining:

A process of negotiation between employers and a group of employees aimed at reaching agreements to regulate working conditions, wages, and other employment terms.

Labor Union: An organized association of workers formed to protect and further their rights and interests in the workplace.