Public Employees | September 2025

Tailgating to celebrate our labor

Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation have been celebrating and defending their work in public service over the past two weekends: during a cookout at Mets Citi Field Stadium in Queens (above) and at Labor Day events statewide. In her latest column, AFT President Randi Weingarten reflects on the true meaning of Labor Day—a day rooted in the struggle for workers’ dignity. She reminds us why union power is essential: to fight for fair pay, public services and a democracy that works for everyone. “Unions enable working people not just to ask for things from those in power, but to have some power of their own,” she writes. Watch video highlights here.

AFT joins nationwide boycott against Target

AFT President Randi Weingarten joined Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates and Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Ga., to announce dual resolutions in support of the nationwide boycott against Target, after the retailer rescinded its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts to comply with the Trump administration’s offensive attacks on DEI. Weingarten said, “We rarely engage in this type of action, but we’re doing so here because Target betrayed promises to communities of color throughout the United States.”

The lies RFK Jr. told—and the facts

At a hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on Sept. 4, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was grilled by lawmakers about troubling changes in public health policy—everything from controversial vaccine guidance and top-level resignations at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to who can still get a COVID-19 booster. But instead of clear answers, Kennedy spread misinformation. This AFT Voices post breaks down his top false claims—and what the facts say.

Take this free online safety training

Cyber safety and security training can help you increase your awareness of online threats, equipping you to protect your personal information online and help respond to digital crises. This outstanding training will provide specific tools and tips to defend against digital threats, as well as provide action steps and insights on how you can increase your privacy both online and offline. This free evening training will be held Wednesday, Sept. 24. Register now.

Next ‘No Kings Day’ will be Saturday, Oct. 18

As the Trump administration escalates its attacks on our rights, including our civil rights and our rights to vote and to govern ourselves, millions are rising up again to say: “No Kings.” On Oct. 18, the growing No Kings movement will take to the streets again to demand dignity, defend our communities and reject authoritarianism in all its forms. Find AFT actions and mobilizations here.