BOSTON – June 19, 2020 – The Boston Teachers Union (BTU), representing more than 10,000 educators, retirees, and paraprofessionals statewide, and more than 3,800 in the 8th Congressional District, announced today that it is endorsing Dr. Robbie Goldstein for the United States House of Representatives (MA-08).
This endorsement follows important endorsements from 2020 presidential candidate Andrew Yang, prominent Massachusetts lawmaker State Representative Nika Elugardo, as well as Indivisible, Peace Action, Progressive Massachusetts, the Sunrise Movement and many others, conveying significant momentum for the Goldstein campaign.
As Massachusetts and the nation still navigate the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Goldstein’s experience as an infectious disease physician at MGH is increasingly relevant. Goldstein’s more conservative opponent, Representative Stephen Lynch, is one of two remaining Democrats in the House who voted against the Affordable Care Act, has consistently championed charter schools (including opening one of his own that has recently been criticized for racist policies), and has not been viewed as an ally to public school teachers and education professionals. As Massachusetts prepares to reopen schools, Goldstein has pledged to prioritize investments in safety and innovative solutions to meet students’ modern educational needs, as well as advocate against deep cuts to resources and the weakening of standards.
“As a medical doctor, Dr. Goldstein knows what it takes to be on the frontlines and work with insufficient funding and resources. As a member of Congress, we are confident that he will use his experience to fight for the schools our students deserve and the resources our education professionals need,” said BTU President Jessica Tang. “We need leaders like him in Congress to support our public schools and students as we move towards an equitable long-term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“I am inspired by the Boston Teachers Union and their commitment to equity and opportunity for every student. Teachers and education professionals are my patients, my mentors, and my friends. They are who gave me the confidence to push harder and reach higher and their lesson has always been one of perseverance and ability,” said Goldstein. “This endorsement is humbling and I look forward to working with the BTU to ensure that we invest in communities and programs that will secure a better future for students across the district. Together, we can make our schools safer and improve the quality of life for all working people.”
Dr. Goldstein will march with leaders of the BTU at 2pm on June 19, starting at Town Field in Dorchester (1565 Dorchester Ave), as teachers gather in support of the Black Lives Matter Movement. Dr. Goldstein will be available for interviews.
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Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD is a physician based in Boston who is running for Congress to represent Massachusetts’ Eighth District. Goldstein has spent his career in Medicine focused on infectious disease treatment and prevention. A human rights advocate, Goldstein founded and directs the Transgender Health Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and has worked to further progressive causes in Massachusetts for two decades.
Goldstein seeks to address our nation’s public health issues by enacting healthcare for all, addiction support services, common-sense gun violence prevention measures, and a Green New Deal. Learn more at www.robbieforchange.com
The Boston Teachers Union proudly represents more than 10,000 teachers and other professionals including school nurses, psychologists, guidance counselors, paraprofessionals, and substitute teachers. Together, we advocate for the interests of students, parents and education professionals throughout Boston. We support investment in public education to ensure a stronger future for our students and our city. As a union of educators, we are part of a movement that seeks to improve the quality of life for all working people. We are united against all forms of prejudice and bigotry that would seek to devalue the lives or liberties of our students, families or colleagues.
