Stacy Davis Gates Steps Into Statewide Leadership After Unanimous Election
Stacy Davis Gates has officially taken the reins as president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) after a unanimous vote on October 19, 2025. The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) leader now holds a dual role representing more than 100,000 educators, paraprofessionals, and higher education workers across Illinois.
Her victory came during the IFT’s state convention, where delegates from every region of the state — including southern Illinois, northern suburbs, and higher education institutions — voted her in without opposition. She succeeds Dan Montgomery, who led the organization for 15 years.
Davis Gates has long been known for her bold advocacy on issues of equity and funding within Chicago Public Schools. Her new role positions her to take that fight statewide, bringing her vision of solidarity and justice to a broader platform.
Fighting for Fair Funding and Equity in Education
Under Davis Gates’ leadership, the CTU has been vocal about closing budget gaps and addressing chronic underfunding in public schools. She plans to expand that mission at the state level by pushing for more equitable state funding for both K–12 and higher education.
Her strategy includes training union members on how to negotiate stronger contracts, build community support, and hold administrations accountable. “We have to show people how to practice democracy and work across our differences,” she said during the convention. “Solidarity built on our collective needs is what strengthens us.”
Davis Gates emphasized that schools and universities have faced years of financial strain, often forcing working families to bear the rising costs. By prioritizing public investment, she aims to make education more affordable and accessible for students statewide.
A Legacy of Leadership Rooted in Sacrifice and Strength
Davis Gates often connects her leadership journey to her deep family roots in the South. “Look at me,” she told Politico. “Both my grandmothers were sharecroppers — literally from Sunflower County, Mississippi, and Eudora, Arkansas. And now I get to lead the largest union in the Illinois AFL-CIO.”
Her story reflects generational perseverance and the sacrifices that made her success possible. “I am a manifestation of that sacrifice,” she said. “I work hard to make good on it because I know what it took.”
She also acknowledged that her approach sometimes draws criticism. However, supporters say her unapologetic leadership style is exactly what education needs in a time of political division and resource challenges.
Support From State and National Leaders
Davis Gates’ election drew praise from political and labor leaders across the country. Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch called her someone who “always blazes her own trail” and “always knows her why.”
Rep. Delia Ramirez also celebrated her long-time friend, calling her one of the “most courageous labor leaders in Chicago.” She added, “As everything we care about is under attack, we need leaders who will boldly fight for the schools and fully resourced public education system every community deserves.”
American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten welcomed the shift in leadership, noting, “Stacy is one of the leaders representing the next generation. We as a union have many voices — and hers is one that will shape the future.”
With her new statewide role, Stacy Davis Gates continues to embody the power of purpose-driven leadership, guided by community, courage, and a commitment to equity in education.
