Happy Labor Day!

Dear IFT Member,

As we come together in our communities this weekend to celebrate Labor Day, I find myself reflecting on the incredible power of solidarity that I've been fortunate to witness during my time as your IFT president.

Standing with you – our dedicated members serving schools, universities, community colleges, and communities – has been the honor of a lifetime. Your commitment to public service continues to inspire me, and your work matters deeply. You are the heart of our communities and public education in Illinois.

Over the past 15 years, we’ve stood up to challenges and celebrated triumphs. We’ve led the fight for fairness, dignity at work, racial justice, and a future that our students and all Illinoisans deserve. Through this work, we’ve built a stronger and more united union. And while I will be stepping aside at the end of my term in October, I leave with full confidence in that strength and the leaders who will carry us forward.

Labor Day is more than a day off – it's a reminder of what we can achieve when we stand together. Let’s honor the legacy of those who came before us by continuing to lift each other up and advocate for our professions and those we serve. Never lose sight of the power we hold and what we can transform when we act as one.

Thank you for allowing me to serve you. I will always be proud to be IFT.

In gratitude and solidarity,

Dan Montgomery, IFT President

Posting your Labor Day photos on social media? Don’t forget to tag @iftaft!