On May 1, Worthy Wage activists nationwide sent a message–"We're Hanging by a Thread! Worthy Wages for Early Childhood Educators!" Drawing national attention to the early childhood staffing crisis, the campaign was coordinated by AFT First Class Teachers, an associate membership program for early childhood educators offered by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Taking advantage of one of the biggest audiences in morning television, AFT members made an appearance on the "Today" show to let the public know that early childhood educators deserve better pay, benefits and respect.

In an interview on the "Today" show plaza with Al Roker, New York City child care provider Lourdes Lebron, who is part of an effort by the United Federation of Teachers to organize thousands of home providers in the city, spoke for the group. A provider with 25 years of experience, Lebron told Roker the group was from the AFT and were there for Worthy Wage Day.

The participants also had fun with musical guest, Michael Bublé, giving him an AFT hat after he shared that his mother is a teacher.

Miles away in Washington, D.C., Worthy Wage Day was recognized by a bipartisan resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.  The resolution, H. Con. Res. 112, passed with 345 House members voting in favor and 73 members voting against it.

AFT members at the "Today" Show.

Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D.-NY), sponsor of the
Worthy Wage Day Resolution with AFT staff.

Rep. Todd Platts (R.-PA), sponsor of the
Worthy Wage Day Resolution with Marci Young.

Final signature quilt displayed
at the AFT headquarters.