January 15, 2026

Turning Vision Into Action, Let’s Make this Year Count

As we enter the new year, it’s essential to focus on providing optimum representation and engagement for our members. To achieve this, let’s prioritize training and education in key areas that impact our members daily, including workers’ compensation programs, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), veterans’ rights and benefits, civil rights, civic engagement, and equal employment opportunities. By doing so, we can increase member engagement and empower members with the knowledge needed to succeed.

The Human Relations Department is committed to providing the necessary tools and guidance to achieve this mission. We are excited to work with President Jonathan Smith and the APWU leadership to build on our shared goals of member empowerment and advocacy. Together, we can identify areas of need and develop targeted initiatives to support our members.

One of the ways we can build a stronger APWU is by fostering a sense of community among the membership. When you feel connected to one another and to the union, you are more likely to stay engaged and active. Local offices can play a vital role in creating this sense of community by hosting events and activities that bring us all together. These events can range from casual social gatherings to more formal training sessions and workshops.

Town hall meetings can provide a platform for members to share concerns, receive updates on union activities, and learn about important topics such as: the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), EAP, veterans’ rights and benefits, civil rights, and social justice. These kinds of events can also help to build relationships between members and union leaders, creating a more personal and supportive community. By providing a forum for open discussion and feedback, local offices can demonstrate their commitment to member engagement and empowerment.

In addition to hosting events, local offices can also prioritize member recognition and appreciation. Recognizing members’ achievements and milestones can go a long way in making them feel valued and appreciated. This can be as simple as sending a congratulatory letter or recognizing members’ contributions at union events. By acknowledging the hard work and dedication of our members, we can build a more positive and supportive community.

As we move forward, we must continue to prioritize member education and empowerment. By providing our members with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed, we can build a stronger, more resilient union that benefits everyone involved. The Human Relations Department is committed to supporting local offices in their efforts to educate and engage members. By working together and prioritizing member needs, we can create a union that’s truly member-focused and dedicated to serving the needs of our members. With the leadership of our APWU officers, we’re confident that we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our members. Let’s build a union that’s not just about advocacy, but about community, connection, and support.

As we look to the future, we’re excited to see the impact that we can make. With strong leadership, dedicated staff, and engaged members, we’re well-positioned to achieve our goals and make a positive difference in the lives of postal workers. Let’s work together to build a stronger, more vibrant APWU that benefits everyone involved. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for ourselves, our members, and the communities we serve. Together, we can achieve great things and make a lasting impact. We’re proud to be part of the APWU family and look forward to working with every one of you to build a better future for all.