The teachers union of Puerto Rico signs an historic agreement to affiliate with the AFT

The 40,000-member teachers union of Puerto Rico signs an historic agreement to affiliate with the American Federation of Teachers to help “fight against austerity and privatization.” AFT President Randi Weingarten said “an attack on teachers anywhere is an attack on teachers everywhere. (Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico) has been battling against austerity and privatization in Puerto Rico and the everyday consequences for the island's people. With this affiliation, the 1.6 million members of the AFT join in that fight.” Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico President Aida Diaz said “teachers are teachers no matter where they work, and we should be treated as professionals and respected by the government and the public as a vital and necessary resource.”