More than 100 members of the United Steelworkers (USW) gathered in Newport News, Virginia, to support collective action and criticize Donald Trump’s policies on working people. The event was part of the AFL-CIO’s nationwide bus tour titled “It’s Better in a Union: Fighting for Freedom, Fairness & Security,” which started in Washington, D.C., and made its first stop at USW Local 8888 on Huntington Avenue.
Local 8888 includes 10,000 shipbuilders who construct nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers for the Navy. Many members are veterans who rely on benefits threatened by Trump’s proposed cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Our veterans put their lives on the line for us. It’s unconscionable for Trump to turn his back on these heroes—but that’s exactly what he’s doing to all of the people who do the hard work of powering this country,” said USW International Vice President at Large Roxanne D. Brown during her address to union members, elected officials, and supporters.
Trump’s plans to reduce VA funding are part of a broader strategy affecting essential services and workplace safety protections while undermining labor and civil rights. USW International Vice President (Human Affairs) Kevin Mapp emphasized unity among workers against divisive tactics targeting immigrants and trans individuals.
“They’re trying to make us turn on each other,” Mapp stated, pointing out efforts that encourage hostility against vulnerable groups instead of focusing criticism on wealthy elites.
Newport News was chosen as an appropriate location for this event due to its strong union presence. USW District 8 Director Larry Ray highlighted shared values within the labor movement as fundamental strengths supporting workers’ rights across various regions.
“We understand that all workers deserve dignity, both on the job and in their retirement,” said Ray. He leads thousands of USW members in Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, and West Virginia.
The United Steelworkers represents 850,000 North American workers across diverse industries such as metals, mining, rubber production; chemicals manufacturing; paper-making processes; oil refining operations; service sectors including public healthcare facilities along with higher education institutions.
