MTA’s Interdependent Power Moment: A Reflection from the 2025 Summer Conference

Union members voting at a meeting: democratic principles guide the work of unions.

This summer, I had the privilege of attending the first day of the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) Summer Conference at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The energy was palpable, the ideas bold, and the commitment to justice unmistakable. What stood out most was the union’s unwavering belief in interdependent power—a concept that shaped every conversation, every speech, and every strategy shared.

A Legacy of Organizing and Solidarity

The MTA’s victories over the past year, especially for paraprofessional educators, were front and center. These wins weren’t just about contracts—they were about coalition-building. Member leaders spoke passionately about organizing not only for better wages but also in defense of students impacted by immigration raids. This kind of activism isn’t new to the MTA; it’s embedded in its DNA. For over 175 years, the union has evolved in tandem with political, cultural, and economic shifts, making it a dynamic force in Massachusetts education.

Democratized Bargaining: A New Era of Union Power

Much of the MTA’s recent momentum stems from its embrace of democratized bargaining. As described in one of their newsletters:

“Impressive contract victories are only possible when local associations organize members to participate in democratized bargaining. Some elements include silent representatives, public bargaining platforms, contract action teams (CATs), proposals for the common good, coordinated bargaining across units, and strategic, escalating campaigns.”

This approach has reinvigorated local associations and empowered members to take ownership of their negotiations.

Voices of Resistance and Possibility

The conference featured powerful keynote addresses from two towering figures in social justice.

Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, described in the program as “an author, scholar, and activist,” delivered a stirring critique of how corporate America has co-opted the Black Lives Matter movement. She argued that increasing diversity in hiring is not a substitute for dismantling the structural barriers that exclude people of color. Her call for a multi-ethnic movement to succeed BLM was both urgent and visionary.

Dr. Cornel West, recipient of the MTA Human and Civil Rights Award, reminded us of the moral gravity of our times. Quoting prophetic voices like W.E.B. Du Bois and Ella Baker, West urged educators not to despair but to organize, mobilize, and reimagine their efforts. When asked how to navigate today’s political chaos, his advice was simple yet profound: “Maintain your moral compass and don’t be distracted by the news cycle.”

Community Recognition and Civic Commitment

Two grassroots organizations were honored for their work: Mocha (Men of Color Health Awareness) and Common Thread, which equips women with professional attire for job interviews. These awards reflected MTA’s commitment to civic engagement and its recognition of community-based empowerment.

Unions as Engines of Social Change

In a capitalist society, unions have always played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of workers and the communities they serve. Their power fluctuates, but their relevance endures—especially when aligned with broader social movements, such as women’s rights, racial justice, and economic equity. The MTA’s recent activism exemplifies this intersectional approach.

Union members hold a unique position in the workplace. Their strength lies in collective action, in standing together to demand fair compensation and just treatment. This solidarity, though challenged by diversity within membership, often finds common ground in shared values of justice and equity.

Theoretical Foundations: Interdependent Power and Pluralism

Francis Pevins’ theory of interdependent power offers a compelling lens through which to view union activism. Power doesn’t always flow from the top—it can rise from below, from communities united in purpose. Pluralist theory echoes this, suggesting that power shifts as groups form coalitions and rally around shared goals. The MTA’s push for democratization draws inspiration from successful strategies used by teacher associations in the American South, though cultural and religious divisions can complicate coalition-building.

Navigating Complex Terrain

Educator unions are complex entities, spanning pre-K to higher education, and operating within political systems that define their scope. They are rooted in local communities but also shaped by state and national legislation. Neoliberal policies, which prioritize market forces, pose particular challenges. Political shifts—whether in the State House or the White House—can dramatically alter the landscape for union advocacy.

The Paradox of Educator Status

Educators often face status inconsistency: they are revered for their contributions to society but undercompensated for their labor. Their work is essential to technological innovation, democratic participation, and social mobility—yet systems often undervalue these intangible benefits. The MTA’s efforts highlight the need for agitation and advocacy to ensure educators receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.

Subaltern Activism and the Path Forward

In recent months, the MTA has embraced subaltern activism, focusing on underpaid and overlooked educators. Their victories for paraprofessionals in the Boston area are a testament to this commitment. By centering the voices of those often marginalized, the MTA is redefining what union power looks like—and proving that interdependent power is not just a theory, but a lived reality.