Teachers Union Funnels Millions to Far-Left Groups: ‘Social Justice Unionism’ Revealed

Recent federal labor filings reveal that the National Education Association (NEA), one of the largest teachers’ unions in the United States, has allocated substantial funds to far-left activist groups and social justice organizations. These findings highlight what has been termed “social justice unionism,” raising concerns about the union’s priorities.

NEA Funding Breakdown

In its financial disclosure for the 2024 fiscal year, the NEA reported several large expenditures:

• $300,000 to the Sixteen Thirty Fund, recognized as a dark money group.
• Over $3.5 million to Education International, a global teachers federation.
• $500,000 to initiatives aimed at ending standardized testing in Massachusetts.
• $500,000 in support of an anti-gerrymandering amendment in Ohio.
• $166,000 to Imagine Us LLC, specializing in racial equity training.
• Funds directed towards curriculum materials promoting social justice education.

Political and Advocacy Focus

These revelations have drawn criticism regarding the NEA’s focus on political projects over the interests of its members. The union represents over 3 million teachers but is seen as prioritizing a far-left agenda. Critics argue that teachers’ working conditions and educational quality should take precedence over political advocacy.

Mika Hackner, Director of Research at the North American Values Institute (NAVI), noted that the union’s spending reflects a shift away from supporting its members’ needs. “This is the upshot of social justice unionism,” she stated, highlighting the disconnect between union activities and the priorities of many teachers.

Concerns Among Educators

The NEA has faced increasing scrutiny for its political stance, with allegations of promoting leftist ideology instead of focusing on educational improvement. Past reports have indicated that the union provides materials on gender identity and issues it deems politically relevant while labeling opposition as “villains.”

Erika Sanzi, a communications director at Defending Education, suggests that the NEA’s federal charter should be reassessed. She claims the organization has strayed from its original mission to elevate teaching and promote education in the U.S.

Conclusion

As the debate over the NEA’s role in education continues, it remains to be seen whether its leadership will shift its focus back to the needs of its members or persist in its current trajectory of social justice unionism.