Long Island Area Local Demands ‘Dignity and Respect’ at Bargaining Table

More than 300 attended the Long Island Area Local’s Day of protest on Sunday, April 12, when members demanded to be “treated with the dignity and respect we deserve at the bargaining table” and an end to the “under-the-table Staples deal.”

President Pete Furgiuele explained that past protests were held on weekdays, which prevented many members from participating. In response to requests from union members, this event was scheduled for a Sunday afternoon.

“Our members kept their word and attended,” Furgiuele said. “We had between 300 and 350 show up. Everyone was home in time for Sunday dinner!” Members of nearby APWU locals, the National Association of Letter Carriers and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union participated as well.

The local chose the date to coincide with the union’s protests on tax day. Sunday’s action carried over to tax day, when Long Island Area Local members handed out flyers at the 176 different post offices and branches they represent.