The Executive Committee of the National Staff Organization (NSO) has voted unanimously to impose sanctions – including a boycott – on the Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) in response to the ongoing crisis impacting union staff in the state.
As part of these sanctions, NSO members are prohibited from applying for vacant positions at ISTA and from participating in any shared staffing efforts connected to the state. These measures are intended to support union staff in Indiana and to hold management accountable during this critical time.
The decision follows growing concerns regarding actions taken by ISTA leadership that have negatively affected staff and undermined the basic principles of the National Labor Relations Act and protected union activity.
“We cannot stand by while our union siblings face such injustice,” said NSO President Brad Darjean. “These sanctions are a necessary step to demonstrate that the broader labor movement is paying attention and we will act to defend our members. We are committed to supporting Indiana staff throughout this crisis.”
NSO Region 5 Director Quinn Chessir emphasized the importance of collective action. “Solidarity means showing up in meaningful ways,” Chessir said. “By honoring these sanctions, NSO members are sending a clear message that we will not contribute to or normalize actions that harm union staff. Our strength lies in our unity, and now is the time to stand together.”
NSO urges all members to respect the sanctions and continue supporting their colleagues in Indiana through awareness, communication, and collective action.
The National Staff Organization represents union staff from across the country, uniting professionals who support and strengthen the labor movement in every sector where unions thrive.
Grounded in a shared commitment to leadership, advocacy, stability, and justice, NSO empowers its members to build strong contracts, protect union values, and champion the rights of workers nationwide. Learn more at www.nationalstaff.org and follow NSO on social media.