Hundreds of postal workers, labor allies, and community members gathered in New York City on July 24 to protest against the privatization of the U.S. Postal Service. The rally was a response to a proposal from Wells Fargo Equity Research suggesting that the USPS could be sold off for profit.
Protesters distributed flyers, chanted slogans, and displayed signs opposing any private takeover of the Postal Service. Members of the union and community shared their views on the importance of maintaining a public postal service.
To highlight this issue, the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) launched an ad campaign running nationwide on television and social media. APWU President Mark Dimondstein emphasized the risks of privatization: “If you want affordable, universal service no matter who you are or where you live, stand with us! Postal workers and the public are united in saying the ‘U.S. Mail is Not for Sale!’”
Wells Fargo’s report described USPS as “an obvious source of value” and suggested splitting mail and parcel operations. They predicted price increases between 30-140% if their plans were implemented. The report also proposed selling local post offices to capitalize on real estate value.
Postal workers stressed their role in connecting communities by delivering essential items like ballots, medications, and letters. As USPS approaches its 250th anniversary on July 26, they expressed determination to preserve it for future generations.
Dimondstein highlighted unity among APWU members and customers: “We rallied in New York to take the message straight to Wall Street… A big salute to the local and national leaders… as the struggle continues.”
