AFT president convenes panel in Houston to discuss the tragedy in Uvalde, start action toward real solutions to stop gun violence

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten (above right), among other speakers from education and civic organizations, held a protest press conference in Houston today to speak to ending gun violence.

The event also was a response to the National Rifle Association conference in Houston, featuring state GOP leaders and organization officials bent on protecting the profits of the gun industry and blocking gun regulation reforms in Texas and across the United States. 

Abbey Clements with curly, long brown hair and red T-shirt with "Teachers Unify Against Gun Violence" speaks into a microphone
Houston Federation of Teachers President Jackie Anderson, left, comforts Abbey Clements, a teacher survivor of Sandy Hook and founder of Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence

Weingarten was joined by National Education Association (NEA) President Rebecca Pringle, Texas AFT local union leaders, and representatives from numerous organizations working to end gun violence. Additionally, this press conference convened community members, parents, student and teacher survivors of past shootings, and educators about how to keep our schools and our children safe amid an ongoing epidemic of gun violence in Texas. 

Texas AFT is committed to helping those affected by Tuesday’s senseless tragedy in Uvalde. We are using our Disaster Relief Fund to support the families of those who lost their lives. Please consider donating by PayPal or credit card here. All donations go towards helping faculty, staff, and families impacted. 

AFT President Randi Weingarten stands at a podium surrounded by dozens of union leaders, officials and faith leaders at Houston City Hall.
AFT President Weingarten joins Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, March for Our Lives Co-Founder David Hogg, faith leaders and allies to demand safe schools.