Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, delivered a fervent political speech at her union’s convention, denouncing former President Trump and warning of potential fascism and violence in America.
Citing the importance of the upcoming November elections, she emphasized the fragile nature of rights and freedoms, asserting, “progress is possible, but so is the eradication of the rights we hold dear.”
Weingarten called for unity and mobilization to safeguard democracy, envisioning a future that includes various freedoms such as reproductive choices and the right to vote.
She criticized Trump’s policies and those of his administration, particularly targeting figures like Betsy DeVos and Chris Rufo.
“The November elections will determine which path we take as a nation. Progress is possible, but so is the eradication of the rights and freedoms we hold dear,” Weingarten said. “It is seldom a dramatic event or attack that lets fascism in the door. The violence comes later, after they are voted in.”
Weingarten said she is looking forward to when history shows “that we the people united, mobilized, and voted down this existential threat to democracy and freedom!”
“That we continued the march for progress! That we laid the foundation for a better future! And that we sought to create a more perfect union! Progress is possible! Keep marching!”
“Imagine a country where hate has no harbor, and freedom rings! The freedom to vote! To live, to breathe! The freedom to marry! The freedom for families to make reproductive choices! The freedom to read!” she said. “The freedom to teach and the freedom to join a union!”
While her speech aimed to rally support for the Biden-Harris agenda, it drew sharp reactions, including mockery from opponents who described it as over-the-top or “unhinged.”
