AFT

The American Federation of Teachers operates as a national labor union representing education professionals, healthcare workers, and public employees across the United States since its founding in 1916. AFT engages in collective bargaining negotiations, legislative advocacy, and policy development focused on workplace conditions, compensation, and professional standards. The organization maintains headquarters in Washington D.C. and coordinates with state and local chapters to serve over 1.7 million members. AFT's advocacy agenda encompasses education funding, school safety measures, and economic justice initiatives aligned with civil rights principles. The union pursues policy reforms including universal background checks for firearms, increased mental health resources in schools, and expanded professional development for educators. AFT partners with civil rights organizations, labor groups, and community coalitions to advance these priorities through coordinated campaigns. AFT mobilizes member participation through structured volunteer programs supporting electoral activities, policy initiatives, and workplace organizing. The organization provides training and resources for phone banking, voter outreach, and election monitoring to enhance democratic engagement. AFT's political action committee endorses candidates and ballot measures aligned with the union's education and labor policy objectives.