CSA Response To Janus Decision

Brothers and Sisters,

Today the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Mark Janus in Janus v. AFSCME, the case challenging the constitutionality of the fair share fees public sector unions collect from employees who don’t wish to join their union but still benefit from the fruits of its collective bargaining.

We are disappointed in this decision, but not surprised. This case was just the latest attack by some of the wealthiest people in the country who see unions as a threat to their profits and control. Their slick marketing campaigns aim to convince the public that “right to work” laws are about “freedom” to choose, but their true goal is to bankrupt unions and take away the power and voice of working people.

CSA will prevail. Our members are educated thinkers who are fully aware that we will lose a lot more than the price of our dues if these efforts succeed at reducing our power at the bargaining table. We know how important it is for each and every one of us to contribute our fair share in order to ensure that we’re in a strong position when we renegotiate our contract next year. We know how important it is for our voice to remain loud so that we can continue to fight for the children of this city to get the education they deserve.

As CSA members, you know your history. You know that job rights are civil rights, and economic justice is social justice. You know that unions are essential for the growth of the middle class, and that our union is responsible for ensuring the middle-class lifestyle you have more than earned. You know that strength comes with unity, and you will always take responsibility for each other and those who will come after you.

Great schools begin with great leaders, and great leaders need each other. We embrace this unfortunate ruling as an opportunity to recommit to standing together and reconnect to our shared values. Every one of us must contribute to CSA’s strength in protecting and supporting our members: Get involved, attend meetings and urge others to attend with you, participate in professional development workshops, contribute to PAC, join a committee, and continue to share with us what’s important to you.

Though this Supreme Court decision aims to defeat us, I am supremely confident it will galvanize us instead. Thank you for your ongoing commitment. Together we have made great strides, and together we will stand up to those who wish to divide us.

In Unity,

Mark Cannizzaro