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NEA Issue Explainer

Racial and Social Justice

All people, whatever their color, background, or ZIP code, deserve to be treated fairly and with respect.
Two women at human rights rally
By: National Education Association
Published: December 2, 2021
This issue explainer originally appeared on NEA.org

America’s strength comes from our ability to bridge difference—bringing together people from different places, different cultures, and different backgrounds for the good of us all.

For our nation to thrive, we cannot let anyone divide us based on where we come from, where we live, our religious beliefs, our age, our ability status, or income.

Educators prepare students to live in a diverse, interdependent world, and this requires confronting, examining, and addressing our own prejudices and biases.

NEA member Lukas Michener
“The idea that we are neutral actors is false. We are not. We have lots of power. We meet with young people every day and we want to ensure there is a just and equitable educational experience for all of them.”
Quote by: Lukas Michener, Social studies teacher, Bellevue High School, Washington

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Speak Up For Students and Public Schools

When we act together and lift our voices together in unison, we can improve the lives of children.
Members march down the street wearing red and carrying signs.

Together we're stronger. Together we're heard.

You belong in the movement! Join today to belong to the movement of educators and school staff fighting for the pay and working conditions we all deserve.
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Keeping the Promise of Quality Public Education

The Oregon Education Association (OEA) is a union committed to the cause of providing the basic right of great public education to every student. OEA represents about 41,000 educators working in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 public schools and community colleges. OEA’s membership includes licensed teachers and specialists, classified/education support professionals (ESPs), community college faculty, retired educators, and student members. OEA members also belong to the 3.2 million members of the National Education Association (NEA).
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Join OEA

The Oregon Education Association is a state affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.

Learn more at NEA.org