Good communication is the stalwart of union activity. And it is communication at the grassroots level that best extends the union's message and mission.
"Your union and your profession need you now, more than ever," NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira told 45 editors from locals from Port Jefferson to Gates-Chili who attended the union's second annual Journalism Conference.
"The unsubstantiated and mean-spirited attacks on our work, and frankly, on our integrity, cannot go unanswered. And it's through your newsletters and websites that you provide the response — you provide the truth."
The conference at NYSUT's headquarters in Latham offered editors, who volunteer to put out union communications, a full day of workshops on editing, page proofing and headline writing, page design, photography, video, social media, website management and messaging. One workshop was geared to help the new editor get started; another was tailored to seasoned editors who need fresh ideas for content.
All the workshops were presented by NYSUT's Communications Department staff who produce content for NYSUT United, www.nysut.org, www.facebook.com/NYSUTUnited and myriad publications, brochures and posters.
A conference highlight was the presentation of plaques and certificates for the previously announced winners of the NYSUT Journalism Competition. See the full list at www.nysut.org.
"The truths you share with your members and your communities will outlast the rumors and misinformation being thrown at us and told about us," Neira said. "Thank you for being purveyors of truth."