feb-march_advisor

SPOTLIGHTING

10 CEA ADVISOR FEBRUARY–MARCH 2019

TEACHER OF THE YEAR LEADS LABOR COMMUNITY IN SONG CEA members join Women’s March in Hartford

“We’re your sisters, your brothers, your sons, and your daughters. Treat us like family,” sang labor union members who came together for a choir performance at the Women’s March in Hartford on January 19. The song they sang, which focuses on the need to raise the minimum wage and treat workers fairly, was written by Bridgeport music teacher Sheena Graham, Connecticut’s 2019 Teacher of the Year. “Joining together with other labor unions just makes us realize how much we all are fighting for the same things,” said Graham, who sees the need for teachers to get more involved with their union and with their communities. “The children we teach, if they have parents who can take paid family leave, are going to be more supported. We’re all tied together; we’re all one community.” The third annual Women’s March Connecticut, organized by an independent group of diverse Connecticut women, featured civil rights leaders, disability and immigrant rights activists, and labor union members who spoke out in favor of workers’ rights. Also singing in the choir was former Windsor teacher Lisa Bress. “Sometimes sending a message with music makes it more palatable and reaches more people,” said the CEA- Retired member.

who they are and what they are, and for them to have the freedom to feel they can stand up and speak up.” CEA President Jeff Leake, who participated in the march with members and staff, reinforced the importance of teacher activism. “Every decision that is made about teaching and our classrooms,” he said, “is a political one.” U.S. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes, a prime example of a teacher who stepped out of her comfort zone to become politically involved, underscored Leake’s message. “You’re involved whether you want to be or not,” she said. “The only difference is, either you’re speaking for yourself, or someone’s speaking for you.”

Watch highlights of the labor choir, led by Sheena Graham (center), and the Women’s March at youtu.be/mL2PS0i_KcA .

Bress has taken part in the Women’s March for the last three years because she’s concerned about violence against women all over the world and the pay disparity between women and men. She remembers being told as a young woman that she was only eligible for a job as a teller and not as a bank manager. Once she became a teacher and could join a union, things changed. “Being part of a union is so important for women, because it’s one of the places that works extremely hard to level the playing field,” Bress said. Windsor teacher Lisa Thomas was one of the thousands in the crowd, cheering the choir on. “I’m here for the kids I teach,”

said Thomas. “I want them to live in a world where they are accepted for

CEA members, staff, and leaders prepare for the march.

PAYING TOO MUCH FOR AUTO AND HOME INSURANCE? LET USI STOP THE MADNESS. USI Insurance Services

With USI Insurance, CEA members can enjoy the convenience of having someone on your team help find you the best insurance deals. That’s right—we’ll shop the market for you to find the best home and auto coverage and price for your situation. And because USI is your personal insurance agent, and not an insurance carrier, you’ll receive a completely unbiased recommendation for your insurance needs.

Score now! No need to wait until your next renewal to see how much

„ We quote your policy needs with multiple carriers to ensure you always receive maximum savings. „ Discounted rates available for CEA members through Travelers Insurance. „ All the services of a large company, delivered with the personal touch you deserve. „ Experienced staff advocating for you to ensure your policies continue to fit your needs.

you could be saving! Call 1-888-577-7771 today for a FREE, no-obligation quote!

Insurance products are offered through USI Insurance, LLC. USI represents the insurer in placing your insurance coverage, and may provide services to you for that insurer. USI will receive compensation from the insurer in connection with the placement of your insurance. Coverage and discounts are subject to state availability, individual qualifications, and/or the insuring company’s underwriting policies. USI Insurance makes auto and homeowners products available to CEA members pursuant to an endorsement agreement with CEA under which USI Insurance pays an annual fee for services rendered by CEA. Insurance is underwritten by The Travelers Indemnity Company or one of its property casualty affiliates, One Tower Square, Hartford, CT 06183. Coverages, discounts, special program rates, and billing options are subject to availability and individual eligibility. Not all features available in all states.