About This Webinar
AFT President Randi Weingarten created the AFT Book Club to lift up authors who care about learning and truth. Now we’re flipping it: Weingarten is in the author seat with her new book, Why Fascists Fear Teachers. The core idea is simple and urgent: When people can think for themselves, democracy is stronger. That’s why authoritarians go after teachers, libraries, unions, and the working class. This conversation isn’t just about schools; it’s about power, freedom, and who gets a fair shot in America.
With Jon Shelton, Professor, Chair of Democracy and Justice Studies, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Weingarten will discuss:
- The playbook behind today’s attacks: book bans, curriculum gag rules, disinformation and privatization.
- How those tactics divide working people and weaken democratic institutions.
- How classroom flashpoints connect to labor rights, public goods and shared prosperity.
- Practical moves: organize with families and unions; communicate clearly; protect inclusive, honest education; and strengthen democracy.
Save the date and join us for this session.
Learn more about the AFT Book Club.
The speaker presented a rational, well documented and understandable set of facts, interspersed with professional comments and relevant examples. Attendees could clearly see that sh e is a knowledgeable critical thinker who is passionate about supporting teachers to do their best for their students and to help all of us become a part of the community of learner-teachers who make our country strong.