Hello all,

the AFT 2024 National Convention in Houston wrapped up today.  As you may have heard, VP Kamala Harris gave the keynote address this morning – getting into the convention hall took over 2 hours because of security.  There were many resolutions approved, with some number relevant to higher education, at this convention. These including one on AI and its impacts, and AFT has launched a new political campaign to promote issues specific to higher ed which will address funding and academic freedom. All items of great interest to us.

While in Houston, I was informed that Senator Warren’s office reached out to Randi Weingarten and Jessica Tang (the new AFT Mass. President) about having the AFT host a student debt press conference in Fall River on August 6, 2024 around 12 noon or so. The exact details are yet to be determined.  AFT Mass has asked that there be a good turn-out from UMass Dartmouth.  The AFT locals in New Bedford and Fall River have been invited, as well as other locals in the area which will also be included.

More details will be available early next week, when everyone is back from Houston but please save the date.  If you are available to be a part of this event,  please let me and Stacey know.  We will have a post-event get-together somewhere for those who are able to participate.

In solidarity!