I would like to take this opportunity to express my happiness that the UFT supported and marched in the first inclusive Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17. As educators, we embrace and support all students and families. You don’t have to be a member of the UFT Pride Committee to know a friend, a child, a colleague or a family member just wanting to be accepted as they are. As a native Staten Islander, I am aware that we have become stereotyped over the years in a certain way that is not true for many of us. I was so proud to see Forest Avenue lined with our neighbors and friends in an outpouring of good will and happiness.

Thank you to the UFT’s Staten Island borough office, which encompasses the absolute best, Retired Teachers Chapter Leader Tom Murphy representing UFT retirees and UFT President Michael Mulgrew for marching together in this historic moment.

Susan Pulice, retired