Forget defense, it’s time to go on offense
For
the past several years the PEF Retirees has held meetings and conferences
throughout the state encouraging our members to write or phone their legislators
and use the media to counteract the continuing assault on public-sector
employees and retirees. Those who seek unfair advantages in our society try to blame us for all our country’s ills.
It’s not unreasonable for us to demand the state be fair and live up to its contractual obligations and promised benefits.
In the April/May issue of the Public Employee Advocate, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten expanded the concept of communicating with the Legislature and the public.
Weingarten writes: “Public opinion has been warped by political rhetoric and partisan bickering. And there is a lack of understanding of the work you do and how that work positively affects individuals and communities. Your work is as essential as business to economic development. ... The work we do is the glue that holds the fabric of our society together.”
For too long, I think, public-sector employees and retirees have been on the defensive. We must remind our communities of our service and contributions to society.
As Weingarten says, “We need to do a better job educating lawmakers as well as our friends and neighbors about the work we do and our role in ensuring the safety, health and well-being of individuals, communities and economic development.”
It’s common wisdom, the best defense is a good offense. As others have put it, spending all of your time, efforts and resources on defense is a losing strategy, because you will eventually be worn out and your opponent will be able to keep regrouping and attacking.”
In other words, it takes more than just a good defense to win.
Weingarten is urging us to go on the offensive and educate the public about our work and contributions to society.
The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle maintained governments exist to promote the good and honorable life. He believed no government can stand that is not founded on justice, and he urged citizens to take government and politics seriously.
As PEF retirees and members, we made or continue to make our contributions to the welfare of the state. We should not hesitate to remind our communities how they benefit from our labor.
