NEA Gives Affiliates Option of Joining Labor Federation

The National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union, will allow its local affiliates to join the AFL-CIO, which already represents the NEA’s rival union, the American Federation of Teachers.

NEA President Reg Weaver, speaking at the winter meeting of the AFL-CIO in San Diego Feb. 27, just minutes after signing the agreement, said he was “exhilarated” to make the announcement.

“The two groups working together will strengthen the community [at large] and the organization and the quality of public education,” Mr. Weaver said. Some member locals had already asked to join the behemoth labor organization, he added, paving the...