The AFT has developed a number of resources to help U.S. teachers bring international issues into their classrooms. Developed with the support of a variety of funders, these resources focus on the struggle for democracy and human rights around the world today. They are designed to be supplemental and encourage interactive instruction using real-world examples. They are available free (one set per classroom, please) and may be requested by contacting the department at iad@aft.org. (Please note: items carry a small shipping/handling charge.)

Secondary school

"Democracy as a Starting Point: The Civic Journey in Latin America"  During the past 20 years, many countries in Latin America have moved away from totalitarianism toward democracy. This five-lesson unit explores the challenges facing these democracies and the role of civil society in promoting change.  $5 shipping charge.

"Help Your Neighbor, Help Yourself: Global Democracy Promotion and U.S. National Interest" In the post-Cold War era, framing U.S. foreign policy discussions is a challenge. What are our current foreign policy priorities? What should they be?  This five-lesson unit attempts to address those difficult questions by considering whether international democracy promotion has become the defining objective of U.S. foreign policy.  $5 shipping charge.

"A China Reader"  A collection of readings and articles about recent human and labor rights struggles in China.  $2 shipping charge.

"A Burma Reader"  A collection of readings and articles about human and labor rights struggles in Burma.  $2 shipping charge. 

"Down the Street, Around the World: A Starter Kit for Global Awareness  Help students explore the links between global issues and local communities. This research-based unit guides students through a series of activities that  explore how international issues affect nations, communities and individuals and show how to develop an action plan for community involvement.  $10 shipping charge.

Middle school

"Nations United: The United Nations, the United States, and the Global Campaign Against Terrorism"  As policy makers struggle with one of the defining issues of our time, this unit will help students explore the role of the United Nations in international affairs and the relationship between the United States and the U.N.  A brief video segment that accompanies each lesson acts as a springboard for discussions on various aspects of U.N. activities, including security, peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.  $10 shipping charge. 

"Lost Futures: The Problem of Child Labor"  Teachers may use this kit, consisting of a video, lesson ideas and classroom activities to help students understand the issue of child labor in the United States and around the world. Students learn about forms of child labor and study examples of campaigns to eradicate it.  $10 shipping charge.