Dr. Josh Cowen, recipient of the Friend of Education Award, addressed the 104th Representative Assembly with remarks that touched on various issues facing public education and broader societal challenges. In his speech, Cowen expressed gratitude to President Pringle and the Friend of Education Award Committee, while acknowledging the efforts of educators nationwide.
Cowen emphasized the significance of Thomas Jefferson’s words: “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” relating them to current challenges in public education and other public investments. He criticized school voucher schemes, attributing their origins to resistance against the Civil Rights Movement and funding from individuals like Betsy DeVos.
Highlighting ongoing threats to public education and other sectors such as healthcare and retirement security, Cowen stated: “Breaking as in urgent. But also ‘breaking’ as in a forceful, threatening undoing.” He underscored that these issues affect everyone, not just the wealthy.
Cowen is known for opposing DeVos’s school voucher initiatives. He pointed out that it is not just one billionaire’s idea but part of a larger political agenda. Referring to past statements by DeVos about Michigan’s economy, he argued against her views on worker pay.
Despite criticism from various political entities, Cowen affirmed his independence and alignment with labor leaders and middle-class families across the country. He stated: “I would rather stand shoulder to shoulder with Becky Pringle, Randi Weingarten…than crawl for even one short minute at the feet of right-wing billionaires.”
Acknowledging upcoming challenges in defending public schools and other social programs, Cowen called for collective action. He encouraged people to visit his website to learn more about supporting students and families.
Concluding his speech by revisiting Jefferson’s words from the Declaration of Independence, Cowen stressed that democracy involves listening to families’ needs. He illustrated how democracy could manifest differently for individuals based on their circumstances.
Cowen closed with a call for an inclusive democracy that supports everyone: “A democracy that works for everyone is an economy that works for everyone.”
The National Education Association (NEA), representing over 3 million educational professionals across various sectors, hosted this event. The NEA continues its mission to support educators and public employees nationwide.
