Organizing with HFT

Join our conversation with a 39-year veteran educator and Houston Federation of Teachers member, Estela Blair, who is living the reality of the Houston ISD state takeover. She shares what has changed inside her classroom and school community, how top-down mandates and constant scrutiny impact educators and students, and what it feels like to teach when local voices are pushed aside. Through her experience, she reflects on the power of union membership—how HFT has provided protection, community, and a collective voice during one of the most challenging periods of her career. From advocating for student needs to standing up for professional dignity, she explains why solidarity matters now more than ever. This conversation is a vulnerable, first-hand look at public education under state control and a reminder that organizing isn’t abstract—it’s personal, and it directly impacts students’ lives.

In this episode of Organizing with HFT, we sit down with an HFT member, Rachel Dixon, to talk about finding her voice as an educator and learning how to respond to administration with confidence and professionalism. She shares why she decided to join HFT, how union membership has supported her both in the classroom and beyond, and the positive impact that support has had on her students. Ms. Dixon also highlights the power of solidarity, as she reflects on how union meetings helped her build a support system and reminded her that she’s never alone in this work.

Step back in time with the Houston Federation of Teachers as we sit down with founding member Richard Shaw for a powerful conversation about the past, present, and future of public education in Houston. Drawing on more than fifty years of experience, Shaw reflects on what Houston ISD looked like decades ago, the challenges and realities of desegregation, and the role educators and unions played during a period of profound change. His firsthand stories offer rare insight into the struggles, progress, and lessons that continue to shape our schools today. This episode is both a history lesson and a reminder of why educator voices—and solidarity—still matter. Music Credit: Karega Ani

In this episode, HFT President Jackie Anderson breaks down what’s happening inside Houston ISD and how recent changes are affecting educators, students, and schools. She shares how HFT is supporting members through legal assistance, advocacy, and professional resources, and explains why educator unity is essential during this pivotal moment for the district.

In this episode, we sit introduce ourselves as organizers with Houston Federation of Teachers (HFT) to talk about what HFT is, how it works, and the role organizers play in supporting educators across the district. We talk about who is eligible to join, and discuss the core reasons many educators choose to become part of HFT. Whether you’re new to the district, curious about union work, or looking to better understand how collective support strengthens school communities, this episode offers some of the basics of who we are.Music Credit: Karega Ani