A Message from President Paul Lemle
Where We Stand on Change and Opportunity
THE WORLD AS IT SHOULD BE
Colleagues, elections always change us, and they always change our country. This November was no exception. As a union, we had some big wins in the Senate, House, and on many boards of education. On the national level, however, the incoming Trump Administration is a very real threat to unions, to institutions we value, and to people we care deeply about. The world “as it is” has changed.
However, the world “as it should be” has NOT changed. We still work for our members—we all need proper compensation, good working conditions,
affordable health care, and security in retirement. We still protect our kids so they are safe, healthy, and able to learn. We work within our system of participatory democracy, safeguarding the vote and voice of every person. Our effort is toward a shared future so the things we’ve won are there for us when we need them. Whether at the polls, in the workplace, or at a place of worship, organized people remain the most important force for improving lives.
If political and ideological division is a serious problem in our country, unions are an important part of the answer. Republican or Democrat, the president doesn’t make America great—the people do. In fact, our constitution begins with “We the People” because it is written in our voice. If we listen to each other despite our differences, work together despite our challenges, and help one another face our fears without judgment, we can bend the world toward what it should be. We can make our communities better for every person at every stage of life.
I am committed to this work, MSEA is committed to this work, and I look forward to building relationships and working in partnership with you.