For the two years, MR has been working with a small network of organizations to influence the discussions in the White House and in Congress on industrial policy and the commitment to ensure that the manufacturing sector is profoundly inclusive. (www.mrcampaign.net)
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky was inspired by our approach and drafted HR 5124 calling for a $20 billion investment in education, employee and Black and Latino ownership, Early Warning systems, and more towards the objective of Inclusion & Industry 4.0. Her co-sponsors are Rep. Danny Davis, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Tim Ryan, and others.
Formally passed on 9/29/2022, the American Federation of Teachers gave their formal endorsement to the resolution. This is a huge step reflecting the support of key section of the labor movement. This is also the union that represents teachers who play the key role in introducing young people to the opportunities in manufacturing including great jobs in production, product development, engineering, management, and even ownership. We need to develop the next generation of leaders in modern manufacturing who are not only technically competent but who also share our values of sustainable development. This endorsement is a major step in that direction. Thank you AFT and our deepest thanks to the Chicago Teachers Union that made this endorsement possible.
The Resolution:
IN SUPPORT OF MANUFACTURING RENAISSANCE BILL (H.R. 5124)
WHEREAS, the Manufacturing Renaissance Campaign and the Manufacturing Connect program run an inclusive training program for students and educators that is rooted in equity and environmental, social and environmental sustainability; and
WHEREAS, there remains a crucial need for career and technical education at school districts across the country to provide learning opportunities so that all interested students, including students of color and students with disabilities, are prepared for the needs of high-skilled jobs in areas like advanced manufacturing; and
WHEREAS, Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a Chicago Teachers Union supporter, has filed H.R. 5124 (the Manufacturing Reinvestment Corporation Act), a bill to expand and fund manufacturing training programs, including Manufacturing Connect, in the U.S. House of Representatives, and the language of that bill has been included in other pieces of legislation that are moving through the congressional legislative process:
RESOLVED, that the American Federation of Teachers will support H.R. 5124 and the use of the bill’s language in other legislative measures.
Adopted 9/29/2022