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Elect Martin Powell-Davies:Defending Teachers, Defending Education |
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9 June 2004 Contribution for Schools Out National News from Martin Powell-Davies:I am: the only candidate still teaching in the classroom on top of my Union responsibilities. aged 40, a science teacher since 1986 Lewisham NUT Secretary, and Joint Teacher Union Secretary, for over a decade. an experienced campaigner on SATs, pay, anti-racism, school closures, redundancies – and many other issues. Homophobia and homophobic bullying blights the lives of tens of thousands of young people, teachers and staff. As a teacher and Union representative, I have defended both teachers and pupils facing this deep-rooted prejudice. If elected NUT General Secretary, I will campaign to ensure that LGBT members are defended and that the Union pursues pension and partnership rights, as part of our struggle for equality. But teachers cannot rely on legislation alone. Organisation and campaigning activity are essential. For example, EU directives outlaw workplace discrimination on the basis of sexuality. But New Labour says they won’t apply to religious institutions ! Kent council wants to continue to ban the so-called ‘promotion’ of homosexuality, despite the repeal of the notorious Section 28. As NUT general secretary, I would prioritise LGBT issues as an important part of our campaign to improve both the working conditions of all teachers, and children’s education. |
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