Dear NEA RA Delegates,
I write to you today as the President of the National Staff Organization (NSO), representing the dedicated staff of NEA and its state affiliates who work tirelessly to support NEA’s mission. As you convene on this momentous occasion, celebrating Independence Day and the principles that make our fine nation, I implore you to stand in solidarity with our Association of Field Staff Employees (AFSE) colleagues and support their call for a fair contract. AFSE is the union that represents the field-based employees of NEA.
NEA, as both a union and an employer, has the unique opportunity to lead by example. Just as we advocate for the rights of school employees and the principles of collective bargaining, NEA must ensure that its own employees are treated with the fairness and respect they deserve. Unions have long been one of the fundamental pillars of our democracy and few things celebrate our independence more than a settled collective bargaining agreement.
AFSE members are seeking a contract that includes a fair raise in line with inflationary pressures and the restoration of step movement on the salary guide. These are reasonable requests that uphold the principles of fairness and economic stability. By lending your support to AFSE’s contract needs, you demonstrate your unwavering commitment to the values we all uphold and reinforce the importance of collective bargaining for all.
As delegates, your collective voice holds immense power and influence. I urge you to seize this opportunity to advocate for a fair contract for AFSE. Let us stand united in upholding the principles of equity and justice, ensuring that NEA employees are valued and compensated appropriately. AFSE has shared a solidarity pledge with background information and a letter campaign for all to become informed and activated.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to our union and for considering the importance of supporting the AFSE contract. Together, let us continue to build an environment where fairness, respect, and collective bargaining are not just ideals but tangible realities that shape the future of our union and our independent nation.
In solidarity,
Brad Darjean
President, National Staff Organization