The Portland Association of Teachers (PAT) wrote a letter opposing the Portland Police Association’s (PPA) membership in the Northwest Oregon Labor Council, saying it contradicts PAT’s stance on police reform and that many teachers have faced police brutality. PAT, which had been considering joining the Labor Council, now says it will not if the PPA is admitted. Tensions rose after the Labor Council’s executive board initially approved PPA’s admission, leading to backlash and a delayed vote among all member unions. Labor Council leaders argue the process concerns are being used to mask opposition to police unions more generally. PAT’s letter also criticized the PPA’s treatment of elected officials of color and broader concerns about systemic oppression.
See "Teacher’s Union Writes Letter To Labor Coalition Opposing Police Union Membership", Michael Sainato, The Guardian, April 28, 2025