The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is a national labor union representing educators, school staff, healthcare workers, and public employees. Founded in 1916, its mission is to improve the lives of its members and strengthen public education, healthcare, and public services while advocating for fairness, democracy, and economic opportunity.
Public education funding, teacher and school staff labor rights, collective bargaining, healthcare access, retirement security, workplace safety, higher education affordability, and broader economic and social justice initiatives.
Membership dues and associated union fees.
AFL-CIO; National Education Association (collaborative partner); state and local AFT affiliates; prominent leaders include AFT President Randi Weingarten.
Labor union
