The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) Post Office Women for Equal Rights (POWER) serves as the women’s committee within the union. Established in St. Louis, Missouri on April 28, 1979, POWER was integrated into the APWU National Constitution in Detroit, Michigan in August 1980. The POWER Steering Committee is composed of five regional coordinators elected during the Biennial National Convention to support local and state committees.
Women constitute nearly 47% of the U.S. workforce and hold about 45% of jobs at the United States Postal Service (USPS). Despite representing a larger portion of APWU membership and contributing more dues than men, women occupy fewer elected positions at various levels within the union. Currently, there are 28 female national officers compared to 55 male officers.
APWU POWER has played a significant role in equipping women with necessary skills through educational seminars, workshops, and regional conferences. This initiative has led to increased participation of women in local and state unions and political activities. The group has contributed over $200,000 to the APWU’s non-partisan Committee on Political Action (COPA) fund aimed at safeguarding employment benefits and improving working conditions.
The community involvement of APWU POWER includes initiatives like the “Sisters Helping Sisters Fund,” established in 2005 to aid those affected by Hurricane Katrina. In 2006, its scope expanded to support women and children escaping domestic violence. Since then, it has donated over $100,000 to families and related agencies.
An upcoming event for APWU POWER members will be held at Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel from August 6-10, with workshops starting on August 7. Attendees must register online for the convention by July 25, with a fee that covers an Installation Dinner ticket and a T-shirt.
For further details or inquiries about registration or donations to “Sisters Helping Sisters,” individuals can contact Joyce B. Robinson or the Research and Education Department at specified phone numbers.
