Harassment in Teachers’ Union Raises Concerns

Union representatives for urban teachers are reporting ongoing harassment directed at a member following a contentious race for the presidency.

A disturbing incident occurred last week when a derogatory item was found deliberately placed in the men’s restroom at United’s Federal Headquarters on Broadway in Manhattan.

“This demonstrates a shocking level of animosity,” stated representative Amy Arundel in a post on Sunday.

At a recent delegate meeting, a card featuring Arundel’s image was found inappropriately positioned on a urinal at the headquarters.

Arundel expressed that she wasn’t surprised by the harassment. After running against President Michael Mulgrew, she feels she has become an outcast within the union hierarchy.

“Being an outspoken woman in the UFT power structure has been incredibly challenging,” she noted.

Mariana Pizzitola, a retired NYC Public Service member and friend of Arundel, commented on the situation, indicating that those who placed the offensive images were later replaced after fellow coworkers intervened.

“Mulgrew has fostered a hostile environment for women, clearly not considering the impact of such despicable acts occurring right in the union’s headquarters,” Pizzitola added.

In response, Mulgrew condemned the incident and announced that an external law firm has been engaged to investigate and address the situation.

Although Arundel lost her recent election race against Mulgrew—and another candidate, Olivia Swisher—she doesn’t believe Mulgrew is directly behind the harassment. However, she emphasized that leaders must be accountable for the culture they cultivate.

She has filed a harassment complaint with the NYPD regarding the incident.

“This is infuriating,” said a retired UFT teacher about the matter. “Anyone involved in this is just foolish.”

Mulgrew has been leading the union since 2009 and recently secured his presidency again with 54% of the votes. Arundel’s caucus garnered 32%, while Swisher’s group received 14%.

“This is a definitive case of sexual harassment and workplace bullying,” stated UFT member Kate Anscutt, who addressed the situation. “It’s particularly egregious that this happened at her workplace.” She highlighted that Arundel’s office is located right at the incident’s site.

Anscutt explained that the repercussions of such actions create an unwelcoming environment for women in the workplace. “It’s a clear warning for women who speak out or seek leadership—this kind of disgraceful behavior is what they can expect,” she cautioned.

In a letter to UFT staff, Mulgrew emphasized his seriousness regarding the harassment and announced an investigation led by the firm Thompson Cobain.

“I’m appalled by the unforgivable behavior displayed at our Representative Council meeting on June 11th,” Mulgrew stated. “Upon learning about the incident, we prioritized hiring an external lawyer to ensure a thorough investigation into the misconduct.”

He asserted that any individuals involved would face consequences, stating a firm commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment within the union.

“With unions facing pressures nationwide, it’s vital for us to unite and move forward together,” Mulgrew concluded.

Sources close to Mulgrew have defended him against any involvement in harassment, noting his long history of collaboration with female educators in the city’s public school system.

The UFT stands as the largest local chapter in the American Federation of Teachers, and Mulgrew continues to be influenced by former president Randi Weingarten’s legacy in the organization.