Dear Sisters and Brothers,
As we navigate the challenges of 2025, the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) remains steadfast in our commitment to protect our members’ rights, benefits, and the integrity of the United States Postal Service (USPS). Below is an overview of our current campaigns and how you can actively participate in these critical efforts.
Defending Postal and Federal Pensions
The Threat:
On April 30, 2025, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform approved significant cuts to the retirement benefits of postal and federal workers. These proposed changes include:
- Replacing the High-3 Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) annuity calculation with a High-5 calculation, potentially reducing annuity payments.
- Eliminating the FERS Social Security supplement, affecting workers eligible to retire before age 62.
- Increasing the mandatory FERS annuity contribution rates for all active employees to 4.4%.
These cuts are part of a broader bill that also proposes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy, placing the burden on working-class Americans.
How to Take Action:
- Call the APWU Legislative Hotline: Dial 844-402-1001 to be connected to your House Representative. Urge them to oppose any cuts to federal and postal pensions.
- Visit apwu.org/call: Use this resource to send messages directly to your legislators.
- Participate in Webinars: Stay informed by joining APWU-hosted webinars discussing the impacts of proposed retirement cuts and strategies to combat them.
Protecting the Public Postal Service from Privatization
The Threat:
The current administration has proposed moving the USPS under the Department of Commerce, a move seen as a step toward privatization. Statements from influential figures, including Elon Musk, have suggested that the USPS would be more “efficient” under corporate control, raising concerns about potential service reductions and job losses.
APWU’s Response:
- Legislative Resolutions: APWU supports House Resolution 70 and Senate Resolution 147, bipartisan efforts affirming that the USPS should remain an independent establishment of the federal government and not be subject to privatization.
- Day of Action: On March 20, 2025, APWU organized nationwide rallies under the banner “Hands Off Our Public Postal Service!” to protest against privatization threats.
How to Take Action:
- Contact Your Legislators: Express your support for H.Res. 70 and S.Res. 147 by reaching out to your congressional representatives.
- Join Advocacy Events: Participate in local and national events organized by APWU to demonstrate public support for a public USPS.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check apwu.org/action for updates and resources.
Building Union Solidarity and Power
The Challenge:
Efforts like Project 2025 aim to undermine public services by reinstating policies that could dismantle the federal government and reclassify many civil servants, including postal workers, as at-will employees without civil service protections.
APWU’s Initiatives:
- Educational Campaigns: Informing members about the implications of Project 2025 and similar initiatives.
- Coalition Building: Collaborating with other labor unions and organizations to strengthen collective bargaining power and protect workers’ rights.
How to Take Action:
- Engage with APWU Resources: Utilize educational materials provided by APWU to understand the threats and how to counter them.
- Participate in Union Activities: Attend meetings, workshops, and events to stay connected and informed.
How You Can Get Involved
- Call to Action: Use the APWU Legislative Hotline at 844-402-1001 to voice your concerns to your representatives.
- Online Advocacy: Visit apwu.org/call to send messages and learn more about ongoing campaigns.
- Stay Connected: Regularly check apwu.org for the latest news, updates, and resources.
- Participate in Events: Join rallies, webinars, and other events to show your support and solidarity.
United We Stand, Divided We Fall. Let’s Continue the Fight Together!