Now more than ever all Americans should be grateful for the service of those who sacrifice so much for their fellow citizens. This year, it is my hope that our deep respect and reverence for service members from all walks of life will give this Veterans Day a greater meaning than in years past. 

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This year for Public Service Recognition Week the state federation shines a light on one of our members who works day in and day out serving Maryland public transit riders. Get to know Maryland Classified Employees Association (MCEA) Local 1935 member Donald Maynard. 

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Rising prescription drug prices affect individuals, employers, and all levels of government. As pharmaceutical manufacturers kick off the new year with their annual price hikes, Maryland is stepping up its efforts to tackle the problem head-on.

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Happy Juneteenth!

160 years ago, the last of the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed. Since then, Juneteenth has stood as a celebration of liberation, resistance, and the long struggle for Black freedom in America.

Juneteenth is an opportunity to celebrate our country resisting institutionalized labor exploitation, as well as enshrining freedom for all regardless of race. Slavery used race to mark Black workers as vulnerable and exploitable, but in doing so, it devalued all workers. The abolition of slavery had ripple effects across the country, laying the groundwork for improved labor rights and shifting the conversation about fair work and dignity on the job.

This year’s Juneteenth carries particular weight...

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MARYLAND — This past week, The Department of Education sent a “Dear Colleague” letter threatening federal funding for educational institutions that include race in decision making on student life – a far-reaching attempt to undermine our educational institutions.

The letter is directed towards all preschool, K-12, postsecondary educational institutions, and state educational agencies that receive federal financial assistance and will assess compliance by February 28, defying federal law that protects schools and colleges from presidents directing curriculum. 

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January was a busy month with nearly 2,000 bills introduced in the Maryland General Assembly. AFT Maryland has done its best to keep up with them and alert our affiliate unions on pending legislation. AFT Maryland and affiliates have taken positions on 30 bills. Below are updates on several of our priorities.

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• the Maryland State Budget
• the Fair Share for Maryland Act
• Collective Bargaining Rights for faculty at Maryland's 4-year public universities, and 
• Adding 911 Specialists to the Hometown Heroes Act