Clarifying the Record: My Perspective on UFT History and Leadership Regarding Healthcare, Contracts, and Political Endorsements

As a Unity Caucus member, I'm concerned that this post mischaracterizes our union's history and leadership, particularly regarding complex issues like healthcare negotiations and political endorsements. I want to offer some facts to provide a clearer picture and encourage members to engage directly with our union's democratic processes.

Regarding the photo with Weingarten, Klein, and Bloomberg, it's important to note that it's from a 2011 event focused on national teacher evaluation initiatives, not specifically related to the 2005 contract.

While it’s a matter of opinion  whether or not the 2005 contract had true concessions, we can agree that it definitely included gains such as salary increases and reduced class sizes in some areas.  Understanding the specific context of each negotiation is crucial.

The 2018 healthcare agreement aimed to stabilize costs without increasing copays or reducing benefits.  This involved a complex, multi-union effort to find long-term savings solutions amidst rising healthcare costs nationwide.  Not just the UFT. The details of this agreement, like all our negotiated contracts, are available to all members for review.  Direct engagement with these documents is essential for a full understanding.

It's true that the political landscape has shifted, and voter engagement is an ongoing challenge. However, the UFT remains a powerful advocate for our members and public education.  To suggest that the last pivotal endorsement was in 1989 ignores the many impactful endorsements and political actions the UFT has undertaken since then.  The UFT has played significant roles in numerous elections and has influenced outcomes.

The 5.5% raise under Dinkins was a significant victory at the time, given the city's fiscal constraints. The "Shame on City Hall" t-shirts reflected frustration with the pace of negotiations, not a lack of support for Dinkins.  Giuliani's anti-labor record is well-documented, and the "double zero" contract was a difficult period for all city unions.  Even under those challenging circumstances, the UFT negotiated improvements, such as the 22-year salary schedule.

The UFT has consistently fought for its members against administrations, including actively opposing Bloomberg's policies and his attempts to extend term limits.  Claims about swaying votes are speculative.  The UFT fought hard against Bloomberg's education agenda, with varying degrees of success.

The UFT endorsed de Blasio twice, and while there were disappointments, there were also significant gains, like the expansion of pre-K.

Healthcare cost-sharing is a complex issue involving multiple stakeholders.  The UFT's priority is always to maintain quality coverage while managing costs. Again, these agreements are available for member review.

The 2021 endorsement of Eric Adams followed a thorough vetting process, with input from members.  The UFT's endorsement process is democratic and encourages member participation.

The rumor about a Cuomo endorsement is just that, a rumor. The UFT has made no endorsement decisions for the 2025 mayoral race.

Open discussion about our union's direction is vital. However, these discussions must be grounded in facts, not mischaracterizations.  I strongly encourage all members to get involved, ask questions, and, most importantly, participate in the internal democratic processes of our union.  This is the most effective way to shape our union's future and ensure our voices are heard, rather than being influenced by outside actors with their own agendas.

It is crucial to be aware of outside influences, like Maryannasaurus Regina, who may have their own interests at heart rather than the best interests of our members.  Direct engagement with our union leadership and processes is the best way to ensure transparency and accountability.