When tragedy strikes, the public looks to leaders for empathy, clarity, and moral courage. Unfortunately, the Virginia Education Association (VEA) failed to meet that moment.
In the wake of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the VEA issued a statement not focused on compassion or unity, but on damage control. Rather than calling on educators to model respect and professionalism, the union’s priority was to warn teachers to “watch what they post” online because others are paying attention.
This response tells us two things:
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VEA leaders know their members may be saying inappropriate or hateful things.
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Instead of holding them accountable, the union is preoccupied with shielding them from scrutiny.
That is not leadership. It’s spin.
Parents, students, and communities deserve better from those entrusted with shaping the next generation. Teachers should be role models, setting an example in both words and actions. Union leaders should encourage integrity, not cover it up.
At AFFT, we will continue exposing these double standards and fighting for accountability in education. Families deserve schools that reflect real professionalism, respect, and values, not union politics.
Together, we can build an education system worthy of the trust parents place in it every day.
Chip Rogers
CEO, Americans for Fair Treatment
CEO, Americans for Fair Treatment
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