CUNY Union Condemns U.S. Military Actions Against Venezuela

On December 19, 2023, the Professional Staff Congress (PSC) at the City University of New York (CUNY) passed a resolution condemning U.S. military actions against Venezuela. This resolution coincides with former President Donald Trump’s announcement of a “total blockade” on the country, which critics argue exacerbates the existing humanitarian crisis faced by the Venezuelan population.

The PSC’s statement highlights the detrimental effects of U.S. military policies, stating, “This blockade and continued military escalation are only going to impoverish and hurt the Venezuelan working class.” The resolution emphasizes that Venezuelans are grappling with a severe economic and social crisis intensified by U.S. sanctions and military interventions. Furthermore, it calls for solidarity with the Venezuelan people in their struggle for self-determination amid these external pressures.

Resolution Details and Broader Implications

The resolution comes in the context of increasing military aggression from the United States, which includes the deployment of over 10,000 military personnel and ongoing naval operations. These actions have reportedly led to civilian casualties, with over 80 individuals killed near Venezuelan waters due to U.S. military operations, according to credible reports. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has condemned these military strikes, labeling them a violation of international human rights laws.

Moreover, the PSC emphasizes the adverse impact of U.S. militarization on public funding for essential services in New York City. The union asserts that funds spent on military operations detract from critical areas like education and healthcare, which are already underfunded. The PSC argues that such reallocations of resources undermine the very fabric of public institutions like CUNY, where educational support is urgently needed.

The resolution also points to a historical pattern of U.S. interventions in Latin America, rooted in the Monroe Doctrine. This doctrine has been used as a justification for various forms of intervention that have undermined regional stability and fostered violence against social movements advocating for workers’ rights.

Support for Anti-Imperialist Movements

In addition to its condemnation of military actions, the PSC has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting anti-imperialist movements both domestically and internationally. The union has previously organized discussions on the implications of U.S. foreign policy and has expressed solidarity with various anti-war campaigns.

The resolution will be presented to the PSC’s state affiliate, the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), and the national affiliate, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). This move is intended to galvanize a broader labor movement that opposes U.S. intervention in Venezuela and advocates for peace and respect for international law in the Americas.

The PSC’s stance reflects a growing concern among faculty and staff regarding the impact of U.S. foreign policy on vulnerable populations. By standing in solidarity with the Venezuelan people, the union aims to challenge narratives that support military aggression and promote a more peaceful and cooperative approach to international relations.

In conclusion, the PSC’s resolution marks a significant moment for labor activism at CUNY and highlights the intersection of education, human rights, and international policy. The union’s call for solidarity with Venezuela serves as a reminder of the global responsibilities that come with political engagement and the imperative to advocate for the rights of all working-class individuals.