Statement by Edward J. McElroy,
President, American Federation of Teachers,
On Efforts To Help Earthquake Victims in Northern Pakistan and India

WASHINGTON, D.C. – AFT members across the United States are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life and massive destruction caused by the Oct. 8 earthquake that struck close to Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. In Northern Pakistan and India, tens of thousands have lost their lives and many more are injured, missing, orphaned, or separated from their families.  Once again, this region faces the enormous task of reconstructing communities left without food, clean water, shelter, schools, healthcare, power or transportation.

The American Federation of Teachers conveys its heartfelt sympathy to the victims of this disaster.  We also express our gratitude and respect for aid workers providing humanitarian assistance, and we commend those who already have begun to donate funds or volunteer time to help.

In this difficult year, we again are reminded that natural disasters have the power to touch us all.  The AFT’s leaders, our local affiliates and our members, together with our partners in Education International, Public Services International and the AFL-CIO Solidarity Center, pledge to work with educators and other workers around the globe to bolster relief efforts for the victims of this tragedy. 

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