PSRP enews | July 2025

Take action against authoritarianism

More than 5 million people peacefully and passionately joined “No Kings” rallies June 14 to say we won’t stand by while democracy is dismantled. The nonviolent “No Kings” protests showed that there’s a role for Americans to stand up for opportunity, dignity and a democracy that works for everyone. In her monthly column, AFT President Randi Weingarten reminds us that we must keep exercising the power of the people. As the Republicans’ big, horrible bill heads back to the House for final approval, read Weingarten's statement on it and use the AFT’s toolkit for actions you can take.

9 things you can do to save education and democracy

Public education, Medicaid, SNAP and school meals, not to mention diversity, equity and inclusion—so much of what we hold dear is under attack, and what can we do? Plenty. Here are nine actions you can take right now to fight back, protect education and help save democracy.

National RISE contest for support staff

Whether your state is new or returning to the program, the U.S. Education Department welcomes states to a check-in on July 24 at noon EDT for the 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award, now in its sixth year. The check-in will precede a RISE kickoff meeting on Aug. 14, ensuring that everyone is ready for the Sept. 1 launch. States should email rise@ed.gov if they plan to participate. Next spring, the Education Department will recognize one extraordinary national honoree who reflects the inspiring work of classified school employees across the country. See the AFT PSRP webpage for more information and the federal website for past winners.

Send Congress an SOS on child hunger

The AFT co-hosted a briefing last month with the Food Research & Action Center, along with several other allies, on looming cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as SNAP or food stamps, which is a major driver of free and reduced-price school meals. After the webinar, activists followed up with calls and letters to Congress. Here’s how you can help.

A path to citizenship in Orlando

AFT Executive Vice President Evelyn DeJesus joined Florida Education Association Vice President Carole Gauronskas and others at the AFT’s recent Together We Rise citizenship clinic in Orlando. Watch this video to see how the AFT, the FEA, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association and Mi Familia en Acción are providing information and assistance to community members working to gain legal citizenship in the United States. You can also find much more information on the AFT’s immigration webpage.

Next town hall: Autism, education and public trust

Autism is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Join AFT President Randi Weingarten, Dr. Vin Gupta and guests Dr. Peter Hotez and Danielle Hall, of the Autism Society of America, for a Vital Lessons town hall on Tuesday, July 15, at 6:30 p.m. EDT. We’ll separate fact from fiction and explore how we can reject misinformation and instead foster trust, dignity and inclusion for individuals with autism. This is a timely, must-watch event; please share it. Register now to get back to facts and put people first.