Here's what you need to know this week:
For most Americans, public education is still the primary way in which our families grow up, get good jobs, and live a prosperous life. As we have seen time and time again in Florida, though, special interest groups and the charter school industry have been carrying out a systematic attack on our public school system through measures such as union decertification, vouchers that siphon public money out of our schools, and bonus programs that pit teachers against one another.
This Saturday (5/18) in Orlando, the Florida Education Association (FEA) will be hosting a summit on public education to raise a conversation on how we fight back. Join teachers, parents, and community activists from around the state in being a part of reclaiming our schools and our future. The event starts at 10AM, and will take place at the HIlton Orlando (6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando).
To register and get more information, CLICK HERE.
Here's what's coming up:
- On Wednesday (5/22), our bimonthly Quad County meeting will take place from 6:30 - 8:30PM at the Beef 'o' Brady's in Brooksville (7601 Horse Lake Rd, Brooksville). This meeting is an opportunity for those living in Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, and Sumter Counties to be involved in the CLC, so we encourage everyone to come out and join us!
- On Thursday (5/23), fast food workers will be going on strike in Tampa, Sanford, and Fort Lauderdale demanding safety, security, and the right to form a union in their workplace. Join these workers in solidarity at 12PM at the McDonalds at 2101 E. Avenue, Tampa! RSVP using THIS LINK.
Keep in Mind:
Companies that have been backing the new NAFTA deal have reportedly outsourced over 200,000 jobs. For years, working families have seen the devastating effects that NAFTA has had, and have called for renegotiations. However, the new trade agreement fails again to protect working people. The labor movement rejects the proposition that we must choose between corporate-dominated trade rules on the one hand and xenophobic economic isolation on the other. Call your representatives via 855-856-7545 and tell them NO Vote till NAFTA is Fixed!
That's all for this week! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more updates. If you would like to receive text message alerts from the Florida AFL-CIO (Msg & data rates may apply), text FLUNION to 235246!
In Solidarity,
West Central Florida Labor Council
If you have any comments, or would like something added to the newsletter, please let us know!