The Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) convened their 2025 National Executive Board and Educational Conference in Washington, DC, from March 26 to 28. The attendees focused on addressing challenges faced by unions and workers, with discussions centered on defending workers’ rights amidst legislative and executive actions impacting industries.
Speakers from the United Steelworkers and the American Federation of Government Employees highlighted concerns over legislation such as the Paycheck Protection Act (H.R. 2174) and an executive order titled “Exclusions From Federal Labor-Management Relations Programs,” both of which could significantly affect their work and the collective bargaining process.
Judy Beard, APWU Legislative and Political Director, and National Treasurer of CLUW, discussed threats to the United States Postal Service (USPS). The potential privatization of USPS by the Trump administration was a key concern. Rumors of an executive order transferring USPS to the Commerce Department were also noted. Beard detailed APWU’s efforts, including the “Hands Off our Public Postal Service!” National Day of Action on March 20 to raise awareness against privatization.
The APWU distributed informational flyers, encouraging delegates to support their campaign through public outreach in their communities. Rachel Walthall, APWU National Business Agent, and CLUW National Vice President provided guidance on rallying public support for the “U.S. Mail is Not For Sale” petition to safeguard the USPS.
Beard stressed the importance of the Postal Service, urging members to contact their congressional representatives to support House Resolution 70. This resolution advocates for keeping USPS a federal entity and opposes any privatization efforts.
During the conference, the APWU delegation assembled for a photograph outside the AFL-CIO building, emphasizing their message with signs that read, “Hands off Our Public Postal Service – The U.S. Mail is NOT for Sale!”
