Illinois Federation of Teachers Statement on the Passing of Al Llorens, President of the Illinois Education Association

ILLINOIS - Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement today about the passing of Illinois Education Association (IEA) President Albert “Al” Llorens.

“I am profoundly sad at the loss of my friend, union brother, and longtime educator, Al Llorens. His passing leaves Illinois emptier and less whole. The labor movement has lost a fierce advocate, and those of us who knew him have lost a steady, compassionate pillar who made our lives and our schools better.

“Al was a passionate unionist and educator who dedicated his life to students, public service, and the teachers and staff in Illinois’ public schools. As president of the Illinois Education Association (IEA), he led with compassion and an unwavering commitment to making Illinois schools their very best.

“Al was not only a dear friend, he was also a remarkable leader and teacher whose legacy will live on in the students he taught, the classrooms he fought for, the educators he uplifted, and the movement he strengthened. The IFT sends our deepest condolences to Al’s wife, Wanda, his family, and all the members and staff of the IEA.

“The leaders, members, and staff of the IFT stand with our IEA siblings today. We will continue our shared fight for strong public education and powerful unions, because that is what Al would do. May his life and memory inspire us all.”