UICUF’s Committee on Political Education (COPE) supports pro-labor and pro-education political activity on behalf of UICUF. We are funded separately from union dues, and you must opt-in to become a COPE contributor through payroll deduction (most contributors give around $10/month). Please consider signing a contributor card to support COPE’s activities:
- Endorsements of IL and Chicago candidates
- Fundraisers for endorsed candidates
- Educational events about labor and higher ed politics
- Tier II pension reform
- Higher ed funding and legislative advocacy
During our 2023 strike, nearly all of the COPE-endorsed elected officials joined our picket line along with dozens of other politicians. In the 2024 election, the COPE distributed over $25,000 in support of pro-education and pro-labor candidates and causes. Your support makes this possible. In addition, the COPE hosts informational events and coordinates legislative activity with IFT. Previous events have included sessions about state budgeting, higher education policy, and academic freedom. Look for updates from UICUF about COPE events.
Have a question? Want to get involved? Email COPE chair Jeff Kessler jeffc.kessler@gmail.com or talk to a UICUF staff organizer.