By Olivia Sandbothe

– The National Education Association made history this 4th of July when delegates at its annual assembly voted in new leaders, making it the first major union headed by three women of color. Lily Eskelsen García, former Utah Teacher of the Year, will serve as the union’s new president, Becky Pringle will be the new vice president and Princess Moss will take over as secretary-treasurer, effective Sept. 1, 2014.

AFSCME extends hearty congratulations to the new leaders.

“As public employee unions, AFSCME and the NEA have core values in common, particularly our commitment to serving the communities where we work,” said AFSCME Pres. Lee Saunders. “We look forward to standing with President Eskelsen García, Vice President Pringle and Secretary-Treasurer Moss in our shared battle for dignity and rights.”

Saunders also expressed his appreciation to outgoing Pres. Dennis Van Roekel, who set an example of service and solidarity during his six years of leadership.

“Dennis has been a force for unity in the labor movement and for protecting all public services,” Saunders said. “As someone who is truly committed to solidarity, he has taken on the fight for workers’ rights not just for his own members, but for all working people.”

Source: http://www.afscme.org/blog/historic-nea-elections