An Important Message from IFT President Dan Montgomery

I wanted to reach out personally to share with you some important news. After nearly 15 years of proud service, I have decided not to seek reelection to a sixth term as president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers. 

I have been blessed to spend my entire career as an educator, IFT member, and then as a council and local leader before first being elected IFT president in 2010. It’s been a life-changing and deeply rewarding career, and I thank every member for your tremendous dedication, work and support. 

I say it often, and it’s true—we have the best members in the labor movement!  One of the greatest joys and honors in my life has been to lead this union alongside you. Still today, I am truly moved and humbled that you afforded me that privilege.

I am so proud of the work we have done during my tenure to strengthen and grow our union, to advance the causes of social and economic justice, and to fight back against the attacks on public education, democracy and state services. Together in this union, we have navigated the challenges of Rauner, Trump, and the COVID-19 pandemic. We are continuing the fight to fix unfair Tier 2 pensions. And crucially, we have deeply confronted racism and dedicated ourselves to dismantling racist and self-defeating structures as we work towards greater equity and fairness in our classrooms, workplaces, and unions. I know we will never back away from that struggle.

It was a difficult decision for me not to seek reelection, but I believe now is the best time for a transition of leadership in our great union. It is only because the IFT and our locals are so strong that I am confident enough to step away. Thanks to all of you, we are a more powerful union than ever before. With the support of our incredibly hard-working and talented IFT leaders, administrators, and staff, I know that – together – you all will continue to be dedicated and effective stewards of this union we love. 

In my next chapter, I will assume the role of Executive Director for the American Library Association, where I will continue to fight for so many of the causes we hold dear in the IFT. But until I gavel out of our upcoming convention in October, I remain your president and am fully committed to our work every single day.

Thank you for providing me with the opportunity and honor of being your IFT president for so many productive, powerful years. I know there will be many, many more to come for this union and you, our members. My voice — and my heart — will always be with you.

Yours in Solidarity and Gratitude,

Dan Montgomery, IFT President