WHEREAS, since February 28th, 2026, the U.S. government has started an illegal war with Iran
that has since spread into a regional war and threatens to cause massive death, disruption, and
devastation in the Middle East. At the time this resolution was written, thousands of Iranians and
13 U.S. service members have been killed. Billions of our tax dollars have been wasted on bombs
and destruction, including a horrific bombing of an elementary school, while funding for social
services including education is constantly being cut, and while most Americans cannot afford food,
housing, and healthcare without fear of slipping into poverty. History shows us that working class
people such as our students and community members – not the children of billionaires – will be the
ones sent to fight a rich man’s war that only benefits the billionaires and weapons manufacturers.
The majority of people in the U.S. oppose the war with Iran and do not want to see another regime
change war in the Middle East. This war is already less popular than when the Iraq war was started
— a war that we now know was based on lies of “weapons of mass destruction” and cost millions of
lives and trillions of dollars. Additionally, this war is already leading to higher inflation and costs
for working people.
The labor movement has a proud history of supporting the anti-war movement, from Vietnam to
Gaza to now. Our tax dollars should be spent to address the cost of living crisis in the United States
and fund public services here at home, not create death and destruction abroad. We must
continue to stand up for the interests of workers, not billionaires, and oppose another endless war.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE BTU:
- Joins the growing call from trade unionists to condemn and call for the end of the
illegal war on Iran, and for increased funding to meet people’s needs and fund social services and
infrastructure here. - Calls on locals and members to take action against the war, such as by joining
anti-war protests in their communities, signing onto statements against the war, joining anti-war
coalitions with other unions and organizations, and contacting their elected officials.