A New Opportunity to Advocate for Education (From the General Secretary)

It has been some 25 years since Ontario last had a minority government. Most ETFO members have come  to  the  profession since then.  For  those  who are  politically  active, understanding and working with  a  minority government will be a new experience, one that will expand their appreciation of how our political system works.

Political activists understand that there is a direct link between what happens at Queen’s Park and what happens in their schools. They know that the philosophy and policies of the government of  the day make a  very real difference  to  the  experience educators  have  in the  classroom. A party  that  supports  public education  and  educators  will  set  a  different tone, will make different spending decisions, and will provide  different supports than one that does not. (This is the reason ETFO and other teacher federations take an active role in election campaigns and urge members to get involved.)

Today Ontario has a minority government. Although the Liberal Party won the most seats they must get the  support of members from one  of  the  other  two  parties  to  move  their agenda  forward.  All  three  political   parties know they are vulnerable in the next election. In  a  minority  situation  all  parties  must  be more  sensitive to the demands and wishes of the electorate – both those who regularly support them and those who they want to win over.

This means that, as a group, educators have more clout and that your actions can make an important  difference. You know you make a difference in the lives of your students with the work you do every day in the classroom. But you can also make a difference by making it a point to advocate for public education and for your students.  This means speaking up when decisions are  made  that  are  not  in  the  best interest of your students.

There are a variety of ways to make your views known. You can talk to your neighbours and friends. You can speak to your colleagues, your school steward, or your local president. You  can  get  more  involved  in   your  local’s political  action  committee. You  can  become an active member of the federation. After confirming with your local that your ideas align with federation policy, you should write, email, or speak directly to your MPP. Your voice can make a real difference in supporting your students and your profession. Understanding the connection between the classroom and the legislature is the first step. Inform yourself about the issues and work with colleagues in  your  school  and  in  the  federation to make sure that the voice  of educators is heard.

Being an  advocate for  your  students and for public education is one more way you can make a difference every day.