The 2016 AFT National Convention in Minneapolis, MN was one for the ages. Not only was it the 100th anniversary of the union, but there were a number of high profile elected officials and social justice activists that addressed the convention. The members even took to the streets themselves to put the rhetoric into action. The AFT-Maryland delegation was not only well represented but they also had a strong impact on the presentations and displays during the convention.

The convention kicked off with President Randi Weingarten’s state of the union address. Included in her remarks were a number

Day One of the AFT biannual National Convention got off to a rousing start. Delegates and visitors from all across the nation convened on Minneapolis, MN, for the 100th anniversary of the organization (#AFT100). Members kicked off the morning with a breakfast hosted by the Baltimore Teachers Union. AFT-Maryland President Marietta English addressed the breakfast and laid out what the members from Maryland could expect moving forward during the convention.

The convention proper kicked off in a rousing fashion with President Randi Weingarten’s state of the union address. Included in her remarks

Baltimore County Public Employees had an opportunity to meet and greet the leadership of the two local unions affiliated with AFT-Maryland, which represent them. Baltimore County Federation of Public Employees (BCFPE) and the Baltimore County Federation of Public Health Nurses (BCFPHN) executive boards welcomed and engaged members at the Drumcastle Center in Towson, MD.

Members had an opportunity to express both appreciation and concerns to their unions. Some asked about tuition reimbursement opportunities in the contract as well as work conditions and requirements made of them by the county.

BC

Citizens across Maryland took to the polls on Tuesday, April 26, 2016 to elect new leaders for everything from President of the United States to local judges. Members of AFT-Maryland, and supporters of candidates across Baltimore City and Baltimore County volunteered their efforts and time to back union endorsed candidates.

Union members, staff, and activists volunteered at strategic positions to support candidates in contested races that face low turnout. Shannon Sneed had a strong presence at polling locations to show support for her. She was endorsed by AFT-Maryland, and members went on