NJEA leaders have issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to justice-centered values in response to recent actions by the incoming presidential administration. NJEA President Sean Spiller, Vice President Steve Beatty, and Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson collectively voiced their concerns.
The statement highlights NJEA's dedication to democracy and advocacy for marginalized groups. "When we see Executive Orders cruelly targeting vulnerable and marginalized groups and hear harmful and divisive rhetoric about our fellow Americans, we are reminded of why people of good conscience must stand together in defense of fundamental American values," the officers stated.
NJEA expressed particular concern for immigrant and LGBTQIA+ students, affirming their support amid fears regarding rights and freedoms. "Every child deserves to feel safe, loved and accepted at home, at school and in their communities," they emphasized.
The union also pledged solidarity with NJEA members potentially affected by executive orders. "We will never stop fighting to defend the rights of all Americans and particularly of those who make up our New Jersey public school community," they declared.
The statement concluded with a call to uphold democratic principles by protecting students, defending public schools, and supporting communities under threat.
