Friend,

This past Saturday, AFT members were among the millions of people who protested at more than 2,100 No Kings rallies across the country. It was estimated that more than 5 million people filled the streets—with some estimates putting that number even higher—as communities everywhere came together peacefully to speak out against the Trump administration’s overreach and to protect our democracy.

I was lucky enough to join more than 150,000 people in Philadelphia, the birthplace of our Constitution and our democracy. In my speech, I told the crowd that while the founders weren’t perfect, they resisted kings 250 years ago because they believed in due process and constitutionally protected speech.

I’m so inspired by the photos and videos from the weekend. Our team just made this highlight reel below. We couldn’t capture every local or state affiliate in there, but see if you can spot yours!

While Trump and some of his allies tried to scare us away with threats of force, millions of us peacefully showed up to be with friends, family and community to make it clear that we will not let our democracy be taken away from us.

With this in mind, here are two additional points I’d like to address:

First, the tragic incidents in Minnesota and Utah are examples of the political violence that has become a too-regular occurrence in this country. It’s despicable. In our classrooms, we teach students to settle their differences with tolerance and understanding, not violence and fear. May the victims’ memories be a blessing, and may those injured find the strength to heal. Let’s all honor the wishes of Sophie and Colin Hortman, the children of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and do something—big or small—to make our communities just a little bit better for someone else.

Second, I’ve heard many of you asking what our next steps will be. Yes, there will be more mass demonstrations. But right now, the Republican-led Senate is taking up Trump’s big, ugly bill that will give tax breaks to the wealthy by slashing support for hard-working Americans.

We need to stop the big, ugly bill from hurting our kids and communities.

Trump’s bill will cause 16 million Americans to lose health coverage, and lead to increased out-of-pocket costs for tens of millions more. The bill will also leave approximately 8 million people at risk of losing some food assistance, including about 2.5 million children, over half a million adults 65 or older or who have a disability, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth.

Please take urgent action by contacting your senators today. Demand that they reject Trump’s outrageous and irresponsible budget bill.

Thank you again for showing up on Saturday with so much courage, clarity and conviction. Let’s keep the momentum going!

In unity,
Randi Weingarten
AFT President