Protecting the Postal Service, Our Livelihoods After the Election

The recent election brought significant changes to the political landscape, and unfortunately, the candidate that the APWU endorsed, Kamala Harris, did not win. While this outcome is disappointing, it highlights the need for our union to remain united and proactive in defending the Postal Service, our jobs, and the services we provide to the public.

The new administration brings challenges that could directly have an impact on the Postal Service and the lives of postal workers. Policies aimed at privatizing parts of the Postal Service, or weakening collective bargaining rights, remain real threats. These actions not only jeopardize our livelihoods but also undermine the Postal Service’s critical role in serving communities, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on us for essential deliveries.

The Risks Ahead

Under the Trump Administration, we could face:

• Privatization Efforts: There is a continued push to privatize the USPS, which could lead to job losses, reduced wages, and diminished bene ts. Privatization would also prioritize pro ts over service, harming the public.
• Weakened Labor Protections: The administration may support policies that undermine unions, threatening our ability to negotiate fair contracts and protect members’ rights.
• Reduced Service Standards: Cuts to funding or operational changes could erode the quality of our services, affecting public trust and potentially reducing demand for USPS.

These risks highlight the urgency of standing together as a union to protect our rights, our jobs, and the public Postal Service.

What We Can Do

While the challenges are significant, we are not powerless. As APWU members, we have the strength of solidarity on our side. Here’s how we can take action:

• Stay Involved: Attend union meetings, stay informed about legislative developments, and participate in union actions. A strong, uni ed membership is essential to pushing back against harmful policies.
• Advocate for the USPS: Contact your elected representatives and urge them to support legislation that strengthens the Postal Service and protects union jobs. Encourage your coworkers, friends, and family to do the same.
• Educate the Public: The public is one of our strongest allies. Share the importance of the USPS as a public institution and the risks posed by privatization and remind members of your community that the USPS is a service, not a business.
• Hold Leadership Accountable: Monitor the new administration’s policies and work with the APWU to challenge any actions that threaten USPS or its employees.

A Call to Action

The election results may not have gone as we wanted, but this is not the time to lose hope. Instead, we must focus on what we can control – our solidarity, our advocacy, and our commitment to protecting the Postal Service and our union.

Every APWU member has a role to play in shaping the future. By staying informed, engaged, and united, we can ensure that our voices are heard and that the Postal Service remains a public institution dedicated to serving the people.

We have faced challenges before and emerged stronger because we stood together. Let’s continue to fight for what we believe in and protect the future of the Postal Service, our jobs, and the communities we serve. ■