John,

As I reflect on this year, I am so grateful for AFT members and allies like you. You make a difference in people’s lives every day, through all of life’s ups and downs. We’re still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation’s mood is anxious, the world is embroiled in two hot wars, and the forces of division and fear are everywhere. But there are many hopeful signs: Inflation is down, and the economy is stronger and stronger, even if we don’t always feel it. The value of unions is clear—from the successful strikes by auto workers, actors and writers to our new members in the 81 colleges, K-12 schools, libraries, hospitals and other work sites who have joined the AFT this year.

I’m with AFT members in their workplaces every chance I get, and I could not be prouder of our union and members. Solving problems, finding solutions, caring, fighting, showing up—that’s what AFT members do.

In America’s public schools and colleges, educators and school staff connect with students, hone their skills and knowledge, and help them thrive.

In our hospitals and other healthcare settings, AFT healthcare members strive to provide high-quality, safe, patient-centered care.

At all levels of government, AFT members deliver public services that support our communities and keep them safe, healthy and vibrant.

The AFT’s campaigns put our priorities and values into action. Our Real Solutions for Kids and Communities campaign is taking on learning loss, loneliness and literacy challenges by pressing for solutions like community schools and hands-on learning. Our Code Red campaign focuses on securing safe patient limits and supporting health professionals. Through the AFT’s Reading Opens the World campaign, we have given away more than 2 million books. And our work to help AFT members reduce or eliminate their student debt is on track to provide nearly $400 million in savings for our members.

While there’s a lot of noise, particularly on social media, communities are with us. This November, pro-public education candidates were elected up and down the ballot. And a teacher—an AFT member—is the newly elected mayor of Chicago.

As we head into the new year, let’s remember that is what unions do: We fight for a better life for our kids, families and communities. And we come together to accomplish things that would be impossible alone.

Thank you for standing with us. I wish you and yours happy holidays and a wonderful New Year!

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President

P.S. We’re starting an AFT book club to read and discuss acclaimed books with their authors. Be one of the first to sign up for the book club here. It's open to both AFT members and our allies.