When teachers come together and stand up to the forces behind privatizing our public schools they can make a big difference.
A major force pushing privatization, the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), has made headlines in recent years for advancing extreme right-wing legislation and attacking public schools and unions. A number of businesses support ALEC financially, making its attacks possible.
This September, Enterprise Holdings, Inc. (comprising the brands Enterprise, Alamo, and National Rent-A-Car – EAN), came under fire in the media for its paid association with ALEC.
NEA Member Benefits, which is dedicated to maximizing NEA members’ hard-earned dollars through consumer discounts and special travel and leisure offers, had enjoyed a successful, long-term business partnership with Enterprise. When Enterprise’s association with ALEC came to light, NEA members quickly came together and voiced their opposition.
NEA Member Benefits immediately contacted Enterprise to express concern and convey the political impact ALEC has had on NEA and public education, asking the company to reconsider its association with ALEC. NEA Member Benefits told the company it would suspend marketing of the Enterprise, Alamo, and National car rental brands to NEA members until Enterprise reached a decision about its membership in ALEC.
After discussions with Enterprise and continued pressure from teachers and outside sources through the media, Enterprise ended its relationship with ALEC. NEA Member Benefits now looks forward to a fruitful relationship for the benefit of NEA members and their families for many years to come.
