AFT-Maryland played a huge role in the events with strong representation from various members and officers. Baltimore Teachers Union and AFT-Maryland President Marietta English was in attendance and participated in various workshops and discussions. In addition to her, AFT-Maryland staff Angie Ardis and Todd Reynolds both participated in "Radio Row" where they spoke with various shows about the important work the Federation was doing in Baltimore to restore the city after the civil unrest following the death of Freddie Gray.
In keeping with the theme of justice and equality, the conference closed with a groundbreaking discussion stemming from AFT's racial equity task force. That group, headed by AFT Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Lorretta Johnson, focused on providing quality opportunity for black boys and girls. Judith Browne-Dianis, co-director of the Advancement Project, remarked on the role teachers play in making America a just nation:
"As young people are in the streets saying 'black lives matter,' educators have the opportunity to be on the front lines, showing young people of color that they matter and are valued," she said. "Teachers have to be ready to challenge racial bias in their classrooms."
Baltimore native and Army vet Wes Moore stressed how teachers can remove the "otherness" in society:
"Great teachers make sure the others aren't 'othered.' That the others know their journey and destiny is just as important as anyone's. There are many students who have advocates but many who don't. Those are the ones who need us and who we'll be judged on our ability to reach."
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