A message from PEF Retirees President Steve Muscarella

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

MUSCARELLA

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.

Outdated e-mail addresses waste your PEF Retirees dues. Please e-mail your updated address to jtropiano@pef.org

05.10.2010 - DAY OF ACTION

Region 6 Utica Region 5 Endicott

Region 9 Poughkeepsie

Page 10—The Communicator June 2010

Region 12 Long Island

PEF Information Line: 1-800-553-2445

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