Terrence Martin, Sr.

Terrence Martin, Sr. is currently serving as president of the Detroit Federation of Teachers (DFT), a union committed to providing Detroit’s students and their families with safe, thriving and welcoming public schools. Martin was elected to this position in November 2018.  Before being elected as president, Martin was serving in the capacity as Executive Vice President.  An outspoken advocate for social, educational and economic justice in the city of Detroit, Martin has spent the past decade fighting for students, educators and the people of Detroit. He is a native of Detroit and attended Detroit public schools.

Martin began his advocacy as a second-grade teacher at John Lynch Elementary on the east side of Detroit, where he became a building representative. His activism led him to the elected role of treasurer of the DFT.   After serving as treasurer for several years, Martin ascended to a variety of staff capacities at the DFT, including serving as labor relations administrator, community engagement coordinator and political action director.  Martin has been instrumental in reshaping how the DFT organizes and mobilizes its membership, parents and the community.

In addition to his work with the DFT, Martin also serves on the Michigan Education Justice Coalition and the 13th Congressional District Democratic Committee.

Martin received his master’s degree in teaching from Marygrove College in Detroit.  He is also a graduate of Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

Martin is an athlete who played high school, college basketball, and semi-professional basketball. He is an active member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and the proud father of a son who attends Detroit Public Schools Community District.