NJEA officers participated in May Day events throughout New Jersey on May 1. Known globally as International Workers’ Day, May 1 commemorates the struggles and achievements of workers and the labor movement.
NJEA President Sean M. Spiller attended events in East Orange, Bloomfield, and Rahway, where he emphasized the significance of labor unions in amplifying the voices of working individuals. “I am an immigrant who came to this country as a young boy,” Spiller said. “I am a union leader who fights for the rights of hard-working people. I am a teacher who cares about our students and creating safe spaces for them to learn and grow. And I am the dad of two young boys who deserve to grow up in a country that respects them.”
In Princeton, NJEA Vice President Steve Beatty addressed a rally, sharing his concerns about America’s current direction and underscoring the necessity for labor unions to remain resilient against injustice. “There is power with the unions, there is power in the people, and that’s why we stand here,” Beatty stated. “I love my country and that’s why I’m out here, but I can’t recognize it right now.”
NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson spoke at the Public Schools Strong – Protect Our Schools Rally at Fountain of Freedom on Washington Road in Princeton. She urged New Jerseyans to unite as a community against chaos and division. “Community is no longer optional,” Robertson said. “We have to walk through this crowd and recognize that what happens to one, happens to all. The power of the people always prevails.”
Over 16 rallies were organized across New Jersey, with thousands more occurring nationwide as Americans voiced their opposition to attacks on labor rights and social justice.
A video capturing some demonstrations, walk-ins, and events by NJEA and NEA is available for viewing.
