AFT President Randi Weingarten Mourns Passing of WTU Leader Elizabeth Davis

WASHINGTON—American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement upon learning of the death of Washington Teachers’ Union President Elizabeth Davis:

“We’re stunned by this horrific tragedy. Liz Davis was an intrepid, accomplished leader who led the educators and school staff of the District of Columbia admirably since 2013, including through their latest effort to reopen D.C. public schools safely and equitably. She never failed to show grace under pressure and adapt to her surroundings, and she consistently worked directly with legislators, parents and students to make the D.C. public schools more just, equitable and excellent—fighting for funding, creating stability for educators and opportunity for students, and bringing the focus back to teaching and learning. As an educator for more than four decades, Liz had an impact on countless lives and helped bring respect to her profession by prioritizing the needs of students and the voices of teachers. She did her job and lived her life with a smile, and with hope and fierceness for the city’s schools, its kids and her members. We mourn her sudden passing and keep her family, friends and loved ones in our thoughts.”