Belt-tightening at the AFT

This belt-tightening comes in response to a budget deficit resulting from several events, says AFT secretary-treasurer Nat LaCour. Among the most significant was the loss of nearly $3.4 million in per capita dues from two major affiliates: the Federación de Maestros de Puerto Rico and the United Teachers of New Orleans.

Although the council had voted to place the Puerto Rico affiliate under AFT administratorship for violating its own constitution, the union was unable to secure a speedy court ruling to enforce it. The AFT subsequently revoked the federation’s charter as an AFT affiliate, resulting in the loss of dues from 16,000 members.

In addition, the national union lost dues from 5,000 members in New Orleans and other parts of the Gulf Coast who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina in early September. The AFT Disaster Relief Fund has received nearly 10,000 applications from members who suffered losses as a result of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma. To deliver on its commitment of $500 grants to all those who qualify, the union will need up to $5 million. The AFT already has spent about $1 million helping affiliates in the affected region, and is continuing its vigorous campaign to raise money for hurricane relief (see page 8).

While we expect the budget adjustments to drastically reduce the deficit, the union will continue to look carefully at other areas where it can make economies, not only to wipe out this year’s deficit but to ensure that it heads into the next budget cycle in good shape.

The AFT is committed to meeting its obligations to members and affiliates everywhere. The union’s goal is to be fiscally responsible without jeopardizing its ability to serve members and defend their interests.