A post Janus world

Post date: Jun 27, 2018 4:50:36 PM

The court has rendered its decision in Janus and, though expected, it still boggles my mind. I have attached it if you have the desire to read it. The court has decided to overturn a precedent that has been in place for 42 years. In Abood,the simple principle that "free riders" ought not be able to take advantage of the sacrifices of others was appropriately balanced with people's rights of association and speech. There will be plenty of time for analysis but the reality is this case was nothing more than a blatant political attack to further rig our economy and democracy against everyday Americans in favor of the wealthy and powerful. I think it is appropriate to note Kagan's dissent on the matter: "...the majority has chosen the winners by turning the First Amendment into a sword, and using it against workaday economic and regulatory policy." Make no mistake, the billionaire CEOs and corporate special interests behind this case have succeeded in manipulating the highest court in the land to do their bidding. Check out this video https://youtu.be/C996669qw6M

It's been apparent for some time that public service workers—teachers, social workers, firefighters, 911 operators—are more determined than ever to stick together in their unions. The VTA has no fee payers and we have had 100% of our members recommit. That gives us leverage going into negotiations next year. I firmly believe that unions remain the most effective vehicle for the power in numbers needed for working people to secure their rights and freedoms, and they provide a pathway to the middle class that every American aspires to. We do not always agree, but I know that we are stronger together than we can ever be apart.

I have one simple ask - use your social media presence to make a statement that you are sticking with the VTA. Remember, if our union voice is diminished, our students, our schools, and the people we serve will lose a powerful champion for the greater good. We must never let that happen.