Nicki Neily, President and Founder of Parents Defending Education, recently criticized teachers' unions, stating, > "Teachers' unions are supposed to protect educators, not push antisemitic hate." This statement comes amidst growing scrutiny over the stance of major educational unions on issues related to antisemitism and the Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly following a significant vote by the National Education Association (NEA).
The National Education Association, the largest teachers' union in the United States representing approximately 3 million education professionals, recently voted to sever ties with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). This decision means the NEA will no longer use ADL-provided materials for Holocaust or antisemitism education, nor will it promote other ADL-affiliated programs. The move has drawn considerable criticism, with some delegates stating that allowing the ADL to define antisemitism would be akin to letting the fossil fuel industry define climate change.
Parents Defending Education, led by Neily, is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering parents and combating the politicization of K-12 education. The group has actively campaigned against what it perceives as biased or antisemitic content in school curricula and teacher training. Neily's tweet reflects a broader concern among various advocacy groups and parents regarding the influence of certain ideologies within educational institutions and unions.
Accusations against teachers' unions include the promotion of anti-Israel narratives and the blurring of lines between anti-Zionism and antisemitism. Specific proposals at NEA conventions, such as New Business Items discussing "the history of the Nakba" or the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign, have fueled these concerns. Critics argue that such initiatives, alongside instances of alleged antisemitic rhetoric in classrooms, undermine the unions' duty to protect all educators and students, including Jewish members.
In response to the backlash, the NEA has stated its unequivocal commitment to "educating, organizing against and combating all forms of hate and discrimination, including antisemitism and anti-Palestinian bigotry." However, the ongoing debate highlights a significant divide within the education sector regarding how to address complex geopolitical issues and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all. The controversy underscores the increasing pressure on educational bodies to navigate sensitive topics while maintaining objectivity and protecting diverse student and staff populations.