Union Delegates Push for Divestment from Israel Bonds at AFT Convention

Delegates from various union locals across the nation are advocating for political education and organizing efforts at the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) convention, calling for the union and its pension funds to divest from State of Israel bonds and companies linked to Israel's military actions in Gaza. The AFT confirmed that it has not purchased new State of Israel bonds since the last one matured in September 2023. Many members have expressed outrage over the union's financial ties to Israel amid ongoing violence that has severely impacted Palestinian civilians, particularly children. The Berkeley Federation of Teachers (BFT) has introduced a broader divestment resolution aimed at urging AFT to direct pension fund managers to withdraw investments from companies involved in human rights violations and military occupations. These resolutions were reviewed by the AFT’s International Relations Committee during the convention on July 22, reflecting a growing coalition of members organized under the banner AFT for Palestine since December. In a show of solidarity, the General Union of Palestinian Teachers publicly thanked AFT locals for their efforts in promoting divestment resolutions and advocating for an end to U.S. military aid to Israel. The union members emphasize their role as educators in the fight for justice in Palestine, highlighting the moral imperative to support their peers facing oppression. The ongoing discussions and resolutions at the AFT convention signify a commitment to addressing these issues, with members recognizing the importance of their collective voice in advocating for human rights and justice on a global scale.