We Have Been Down This Road Before

Members of AFGE Local 1224, once again, we find ourselves facing a familiar challenge. The Department of Veterans Affairs has taken steps to terminate our collective bargaining agreement, an action that AFGE has challenged. Although this situation may create uncertainty and frustration, I want to remind every member that we have been down this road before. We have faced challenges, navigated difficult circumstances, and continued advocating for fair treatment in the workplace. Our commitment to you has not changed.

We Have Been Here Before

Our collective bargaining agreement represents more than words on paper. It establishes expectations, procedures, and protections intended to help ensure employees are treated fairly and consistently. AFGE disputes the VA’s effort to terminate these negotiated protections. As the legal and workplace situation develops, members should remain informed and avoid assuming that every protection or avenue for assistance has disappeared.

We have experienced challenging times before, and those experiences have taught us the importance of remaining informed, prepared, and engaged. We cannot control every decision management makes, but we can control how we respond.

Know Your Rights and Protect Yourself

One of the most important things you can do during this period is to protect yourself through documentation and communication. If management alleges that you violated a workplace rule, respectfully ask management to identify the specific policy, regulation, or written procedure you are accused of violating. Request clarification and, whenever possible, ask for the information in writing.

Keep accurate records of workplace incidents, including dates, times, individuals involved, and what was communicated. Preserve relevant emails and written correspondence in accordance with agency rules and applicable privacy requirements. Do not remove protected or sensitive information from authorized systems. Contact the Local promptly if you need guidance, especially if you receive a disciplinary notice or a response deadline.

What Members Should Do Now

• Stay connected with the Local. Maintain communication with AFGE Local 1224 and pay attention to updates about workplace rights and representation.
• Document everything relevant. Keep accurate notes of workplace incidents, management instructions, policy changes, and concerns affecting your employment.
• Ask questions. If a management directive or allegation is unclear, respectfully request an explanation.
• Request the specific policy. If management alleges a violation, ask for the exact policy or regulation supporting the allegation.
• Contact your Local promptly. Notify a union representative about concerns or possible violations, particularly when deadlines are involved.
• Transfer your dues to electronic payment. If you have not already done so, visit https://join.afge.org/ to begin converting your union dues to electronic payment. Contact the Local if you need help.

Our Commitment Has Not Changed

As your Local President, I want you to know that our commitment to representing and advocating for members remains unchanged. We understand the uncertainty these actions may create. Our responsibility is to continue providing information, addressing concerns, and helping members navigate the challenges ahead.

We have been down this road before. Stay engaged, communicate with your Local, document your concerns, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Our contract may be under attack, but our commitment to our members remains strong.

In solidarity,

President Linda Ward-Smith AFGE Local 1224