The state federation was heart-broken to learn of the passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings. His service to the city of Baltimore, the state of Maryland, and our country is beyond measurable and the void of his absence will be felt by all of us.

During his political career in the state house and in Congress he had been an ally to labor, public education, and public employees. His efforts helped all of the various locals of AFT-Maryland and Congressman Cummings made sure public employees were treated with the dignity and respect consistent with their work. His tireless work ensured that

AFT-Maryland’s presence in the community knows no limits or bounds. It makes sense then, that when SEIU 32BJ and Maryland Secure Wages Coalition held a Worker Appreciation Cookout in Baltimore, the state federation was there in solidarity and unity with our labor sisters and brothers. Carroll Park was full of vibrant energy, enthusiastic workers and engaged union staff and members as workers were appreciated. This event is keeping with an ongoing effort to organize workers at transportation hubs throughout the state including Penn Station, the port, and BWI-Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Beyond

The Baltimore Teachers Union  Retiree Chapter (BTU 340R) recently had newly elected executive board members sworn in to office. These officers represent the retirees’ interests in a number of different capacities. Our retirees are among the state federation’s most loyal and consistent volunteers for community outreach efforts, phone banking in support of union-endorsed candidates, and lobbying in Annapolis and in Baltimore city.

Velma Hicks was re-elected to president, while Thomas Frazier will serve as vice president. The secretary is Geneva Harris, while Blanch Morgan III is the treasurer. Oz

When the community calls, AFT-Maryland answers. This was the case when the state federation joined former Delegate Bilal Ali and a host of west Baltimore community members for a back-to-school family fun day. The event took place at Warwick Park and featured a number of fun and exciting activities for the children. The highlight was a backpack giveaway that also came with school supplies to get young people ready for the upcoming school year. Additionally, there were visits from Baltimore elected officials including Mayor Jack Young, State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, Councilman John Bullock, and

With the school year underway, educators in Baltimore city eagerly welcomed their students back to school. For new educators, the first week was an opportunity to get themselves acquainted with the daily mechanics of the school and the students. The advice and preparation from others were now to be put into practice. After the first week, the Baltimore Teachers Union (BTU) gathered the New Teachers Steering Committee for a brunch to goal-set the committee’s objectives for the upcoming school year.  

BTU field representative Cindy Sjoquist organized the gathering at Baltimore’s Dovecote Cafe

Healthcare professionals at Clifton T. Perkins turned to their union when they wanted changes at their facility. Their union, AFT Healthcare-Maryland, hearing the demand from members, arranged a meeting with state legislative leaders so they could hear from our members just what was going on in their districts. State Senator Guy Guzzone and Delegate Terri Hill met with AFT Healthcare-Maryland members at Perkins Hospital Center. Del. Hill shares quite a bit in common with the members at the facility, as she is also a trained medical professional. Her knowledge led to a robust conversation