Proclamation: Mary Hatwood Futrell Day, February 9, 2024

WHEREAS, the Mary Hatwood Futrell Archives Gallery was dedicated on February 9, 2024, honoring the many contributions of Mary Hatwood Futrell to the National Education Association; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell, as the NEA president from 1983-89, served an unprecedented three two-year terms, and oversaw membership growth from 1.4 to 2 million; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell was a leading advocate for women's rights and worked tirelessly to increase national awareness of the Equal Rights Amendment propelling NEA as a leading champion of women's rights during her tenure as president; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell believed that international teachers trade unions could use their collective power to fight for better working conditions for their members and learning conditions for their students; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell was the former president of the World Confederation of Organization of the Teaching and Profession, and later was elected the first president of Education International in 1993; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell was elected president of the Americans UNESCO High Level Group on Education for All; and

WHEREAS, Mary Hatwood Futrell firmly believed that every student deserves a high-quality teacher, and as the NEA president, collaborated with the American Federation of Teachers forming the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; and

WHEREAS, in 1984, Mary Hatwood Futrell summarized her commitment to education by stating "History has long demonstrated that education is the foundation, the key to the achievement of equity and excellence in our society" and she continues to live this commitment;

NOW, THEREFORE, the National Education Association does hereby proclaim that February 9, 2024, be known as Mary Hatwood Futrell Day to coincide with the dedication of the Mary Hatwood Futrell Archives Gallery. We urge all NEA members to observe this day by honoring, celebrating, and learning the lessons from our many past leaders and unsung heroes in our treasured archives.

Given under the hand and the Seal of the Officers and  Executive Director of the National Education Association, this ninth day of February two thousand twenty-four.

Rebecca S. Pringle

President

Princess R. Moss

Vice President

Noel Candelaría

Secretary-Treasurer

Kim A. Anderson

Executive Director

Download the pdf below to see the signed proclamation