About the Human Relations Department

There is more to being a progressive union than achieving and enforcing a contract — and that is where the Human Relations Department comes in. Our programs and benefits inspire members to become active participants of the APWU, and give them a sense of inclusion, contribution, and ownership.

Training

We have successfully trained over 5,500 members, activists, stewards, and officers.

This year, the Human Relations Department aims to continue training sessions for locals and states and provide a Regional Resource Assistant to assist locals and states with their issues.

Employee Assistance Program

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a resource for postal employees and their family members designed to help them with on-the-job, personal, or family problems. EAP is a counseling and referral service staffed with mental health professionals. It is a formal, non-disciplinary program that is free and voluntary.

To learn more about EAP services, visit: apwu.org/eap

Veterans’ Rights and Benefits

The APWU continuously coordinates efforts to support union members and their loved ones who have, or who are actively serving in the military. We have started a coalition across the country to mobilize around the issues that affect our service members.

The APWU believes in a society where all members are treated equally, with respect and dignity. The struggle for equal rights, equal opportunity, and justice extends beyond the workplace into our neighborhoods and communities. It is a priority of the department to remain active around our civil rights.

In 2025, we will continue to strive for equality for all and to protect the rights and benefits of those we serve, mobilize and continue to secure assistance for all who are in need. For more information, visit: apwu.org/veterans

Postal Employee Relief Fund

The Postal Employees’ Relief Fund (PERF) exists to help active and retired postal employees – management and craft – whose homes are destroyed or left uninhabitable because of a natural disaster, displacing postal employees and their families for an extended period of time.

The fund provides small relief grants to help qualifying victims of such circumstances reestablish residences and help replenish necessities in the aftermath of a devastating loss.

For more information, visit: www.postalrelief.com

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

In 2025, we will soon provide our members with much needed guidance on how the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) works, as well as a handbook for the EEOC process.

We know how tedious the process can be, so it is the intent of the Human Relations Department to provide an informative manual, formulated specifically by your union on the EEOC rules, process, and general guidelines.

At this time, we are not providing representation, but it is important that we provide a resource and tool that can be readily accessible.

Please remain informed of the upcoming issuance of the new EEOC booklet that will be shared with our members.

Your questions and concerns are essential. They help us understand your needs and shape the direction of our department. Please, don’t hesitate to ask. Your input is invaluable in guiding our efforts.

We encourage all locals to have someone in attendance for the upcoming Human Relations Assembly in Houston, TX from June 12-15. We will focus on all the subjects listed above and will provide extensive training sessions and presentations on subjects that will touch every member. To register, visit: apwu.org/events/2025- human-relations-assembly. Thank you! ■