The Albert Shanker Institute is a nonprofit organization established in 1998 to honor the life and legacy of the late president of the American Federation of Teachers; we are committed to three fundamental principles:

Supporting Vibrant Democracy

Strengthen, defend, and extend democracy as the best guarantor of universal civil and human rights, at home and around the world, in every facet of life and for every person.

Quality Public Education

Strengthen and recognize public education as a cornerstone of democracy, where schools encourage critical thinking enabling all students to be well-informed and engaged citizens.

A Voice for Working People

Strengthen the essential role of unions in a democracy as organizations that offer workers a voice, lift living standards, enhance institutions, and promote the common good.

Research | Commentary

October Oct21, 2026

Lessons from Hungary and History: People Power is How We Prevail

Guest author and Shanker Board Member AFT MA President Jessica Tang refects on the applicable lessons learned during the AFT-ASI Solidarity Mission to Budapest, Hungary September 30 to October 3, 2026.

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October Oct19, 2026

They Did It in Hungary; We Can Do It Here too.

Originally appearing in AFT Voices, Jeff Freitas, President of the California Federation of Teachers, draws valuable lessons for the US from the Hungarian people who banded together to vote out an authoritarian strongman. 

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October Oct16, 2026

What I Learned About Standing Up for Our Democracy From Traveling to Hungary

Reposted from  AFT Voices, AFT Pennsylvania President Wendy Coleman writes about how the AFT-ASI Solidarity Mission to Hungary left her more energized and committed to stand up for our democracy and fight for a better future.

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Briefs | Reports