Delegates Unite at National Convention

Congratulations on a spirited National Convention; our members were well represented and the delegates united for the good of the union. Another one for the history books! I would like to thank Nation’s Capital Southern Maryland Area Local, its President Dena Briscoe, and members for generously hosting.

Many issues were debated at the convention and craft conferences. I am proud of the Eastern Region delegates for a job well done. I would also like to recognize all delegates for their unwavering unionism. Please visit www.apwu.org for a convention summary.

COVID-19 Remains

COVID-19 remains and is certainly playing a role in our daily lives. New variants show that the virus can mutate to become more infectious, even after vaccinations and boosters.

Daily MMO cleaning, Stand-up Talks, and deep cleaning after a positive case has been identified in a facility are crucial. Remember, Form 1767 Report of Hazard, Unsafe Condition or Practice can be used, and must be completed to document deficiencies. Grievances must be filed to address these serious concerns. This may be repetitious, but we must stay focused.

Workplace Humanity

Everyone has the basic right to report to work without the fear of reprisal, harassment, bullying, intimidation, and threats. I hear from members about degrading and disrespectful treatment from management in the workplace. We must engage the employer in discussion at all levels to send a strong message that it won’t be tolerated!

Our National Task Force has begun meeting in an effort to lead the way. Please reference our Educational Brochure published this year, called “Improving Your Workplace Environment”. For additional information and access to references, visit https://apwu.org/fighting-workplace-harassment or text "HARASSMENT" to 91990.

Respecting one another is a mutual right and a starting place to have humanity in the workplace.

This positive approach will hopefully foster healthy working relationships. If you experience a hostile work environment, contact your local union representative, and complete a Form 1767 (Report of Hazard, Unsafe Condition or Practice). Hostile work environments are considered unsafe conditions and a 1767 is appropriate. Managers are required to keep these forms on the workroom floor, easily accessible for all. Remember to keep a copy of the completed form for your records, to share with your local union.

Article 12 on the Horizon

Under the USPS 10-year plan, changes are coming and we have to be prepared to not only fight for new work, but defend our current work and ensure others are not performing our work all at once. When we learn of violations in the field, grievances must be filed to document them and assist in the event that the USPS issues an Article 12 Notification.

When a regional notification of Article 12.5.C.5 (excess outside craft or installation) is received by the Regional Coordinator’s office, a regional meeting must take place. Until then, management cannot enter discussions locally.

Article 12.5.B.3 of the contract states:

The Union shall be notified in advance (as much as six (6) months whenever possible), such notification to be at the Regional Level, except under A.4 above, which shall be at the Local Level.

Article 12.5.A.4 states:

4. reassign within an installation employees excess to the needs of a section of that installation;

Both of these provisions are extremely important and must be enforced by the union to hold management accountable. If an argument is made by the USPS that it was not possible, they must meet a burden demonstrating their reasoning.

As we prepare to take on new challenges together, my colleague coordinators: Central Region Coordinator Sharyn Stone, Western Region Coordinator Omar Gonzalez, Southern Region Coordinator Ken Beasley, and North East Region Coordinator Tiffany Foster are committed to fighting back against any attacks on the APWU.