2026 SUMMER VOLUME 36 ISSUE 1

A DIVISION OF THE LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA

LOCAL 321 NPMHU

PAGE

FROM THE PRESIDENT DESK………………………………………………………………… 3,4 THE IMPORTANCE OF EAP……………………………………………………………………… 5 EVERY MAIL HANDLERS NEED TO KNOW…………………………………………………….6, 7 YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE……………………………………………………………………..7, 8 WHAT THE UNION REALLY DOES……………………………………………………………….8, 9 CONTRACT UPDATE # 14………………………………………………………………………..9 NAVIGATING CHANGES IN A CHANGING POSTAL SERVICE……………………………….10 ,11 UNION BROTHERS AND SISTERS……………………………………………………………….11 MHBP DENTAL AND VISION……………………………………………………………………...12 NPMHU PAC SIGN UP FORMS……………………………………………………………………13-15 2026-27 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS…………………………………………………………….16 LOCAL 321 OFFICERS TAKING 0ATH OF OFFICE…………………………………………..17 THE OFFICERS ELECTION RESULTS……………………………………………………………18 RETIREMENT CONNER……………………………………………………………………………..19, 20 PROTECT THE RIGHTS TO VOTE………………………………………………………………..21 THE COOKOUT HIGHLIGHTS……………………………………………………………………..22,23

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FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

Free Speech in a Defining Moment

I

n every generation, there comes a time when core principles are tested, not in theory, but in practice.

Today is one of those moments. Across the country, conversations about free speech have moved from classrooms and courtrooms into everyday life. What was once a largely abstract right is now being actively debated, challenged, and, in some cases, redefined.

By Errol “Tony” Wilson President

Free speech has never meant easy speech. It was not designed to protect only popular opinions or agreeable ideas. Its true strength lies in its ability to shield uncomfortable, dissenting, and even controversial expression.

When speech is widely accepted, it does not need protection. It is when speech creates tension, disagreement, or discomfort that the principle is truly put to the test.

Part of this broader conversation must include freedom of the press, the lifeblood of an informed society. A free and independent press serves as a watchdog, holding power accountable and ensuring that the public has access to information, even when that information is inconvenient or unpopular. When the press faces pressure, whether political, financial, or social, the ripple effects are felt far beyond the newsroom. The weakening of press freedom does not just silence journalists; it limits the public’s ability to see clearly and make informed decisions.

Institutions of higher learning, long considered places where ideas are meant to be explored and debated, are also feeling the strain. Colleges and universities have traditionally been spaces where differing viewpoints can coexist and be challenged through dialogue. Yet today, many of these institutions are facing increasing pressure from multiple directions, leading to a narrowing of acceptable discourse. when academic spaces become constrained, the next generation loses an essential training ground for critical thinking and open exchange of thought. Similarly, the legal profession, another cornerstone of a functioning democracy, is not immune. Law firms, which play a crucial role in defending rights and challenging authority, can face significant pressure when taking on controversial cases or representing unpopular clients. When legal

advocates begin to hesitate or withdraw under that pressure, it raises concerns about access to justice and the ability of individuals and organizations to receive fair representation, regardless of public opinion.

Labor unions, too, are part of this broader landscape.

Historically, unions have relied on their ability to speak collectively, advocate, and challenge decisions affecting workers. When unions face efforts to limit their voice, whether through policy, pressure, or public narrative, it impacts not just their members but the broader principle that individuals have the right to organize and be heard as a group. The strength of collective speech is a fundamental part of the larger free speech framework.

CONTINUED ON THE PAGE

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What ties all of these threads together is a common theme: pressure. Not always direct or obvious, but persis-

tent. It can come in many forms, such as economic consequences, reputational risks, institutional constraints, or social backlash. Over time, that pressure can lead to self-censorship, which is often more difficult to recognize but just as impactful as overt restriction.

The question is whether we are willing to protect it when it matters most.

That hesitation carries a cost. A society that discourages open dialogue risks losing its ability to think critically, to challenge ideas, and to grow. Progress has always depended on the exchange of different per-

spectives. When voices are suppressed, whether intentionally or under external pressure, the result is not unity but stagnation.

At the same time, free speech does not exist in a vacuum. It comes with responsibility. Words can influence, persuade, and sometimes harm. But the answer to difficult or disagreeable speech has never been less speech.

The answer has always been more, more dialogue, more debate, more engagement.

This moment calls for reflection. Not just on what free speech means, but on how it is practiced every day.

Are we willing to listen as much as we speak? Are we open to ideas that challenge our own? Are we defending the right to speak, even when we disagree with what is being said?

Free speech is not self-sustaining. It depends on a shared commitment to uphold it, especially when it is difficult. It requires courage, not only from those who speak, but from those who defend the right to speak.

The future of this principle will not be decided by a single event or decision. It will be shaped by countless individual choices, moments where people either choose to engage or to silence, to listen or to dismiss, to uphold a right or to limit it. In times like these, the question is not whether free speech is important. The . question is whether we are willing to protect it when it matters most.

303-455-6400 1-800-521-5094 Fax 303-455-5810 www.npmhulocal321.org

NPMHU LOCAL 321 1833 W ELK PL DENVER CO 80211

THE EXECUTIVE BOARD OF LOCAL 321 TONY WILSON …………………...President SAMUEL T KODUAH …..…………..Vice President JEFF MORGAN…………....................Treasurer CARRIEANN DEGUZMAN …..…… Recording Secretary CLAUDE RIDLEY……………………State Executive Board Member CO Jonathon SCHMIDT…………………… State Executive Board Member WY

The Importance of EAP

fits package.

ello from Cheyenne! A lot of people find themselves having a harder time in the winter handling life’s challenges. It is estimated that 7-12% of the population experiences SAD (seasonal affective disorBy Ricci Roberts der) which is a form of Branch President depression that typically Cheyenne GMF occurs in the fall and winter months. I would like to discuss the importance of EAP and how it can benefit your entire household.

Who is eligible to use the EAP?

H

What is the USPS Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

All active USPS employees, dependents (under the age of 26), spouses/partners and household members.

What types of issues can employees seek help for through the EAP? Employees can seek help for a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, substance abuse, grief and loss, financial concerns, and work-related conflicts.

The USPS Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a work- How can employees access EAP services? place benefit that provides confidential counseling, supUSPS employees can access EAP services port, and resources to employees to help them deal with through a toll-free phone number: 800-327-4968 personal or work-related challenges that may impact their (800-EAP4YOU), through a TTY number: 877well-being or performance.

492-7341 or online at: EAP4YOU.com What services are offered through the EAP?

EAP services include:

The EAP offers a wide range of services such as short-term counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, substance abuse assistance, work-life balance resources, and resources for caregivers.

Face-to-face Counseling Web-based Tools “In-the-Moment” Support Telephonic Counseling Online Therapy Critical Incident Response Video Counseling EAP Web App Suicide Prevention Coaching & Training Consultations Caregiving Resources Work/Life Balance EAP Orientations Preparing for Retirement

How confidential are EAP services?

The USPS EAP offers employees and family members confidential access to programs and services. EAP counselors have master’s degrees and are licensed professionals.

Your privacy is protected by strict federal and state confidentiality laws and regulations and by professional ethical standards for counselors. Information you share with the EAP may not be released to anyone without your prior written consent, except as required by law (e.g. when a person’s emotional condition is a threat to him or herself or others, or there is suspected child or elder abuse) or the is- You are important and your mental health matters. Being a mail handler is not easy—it’s physisuance of a court order upon a showing of good cause.In other words EAP services are private. Information shared cal, repetitive, and often comes with heavy work with EAP counselors is typically not disclosed to the em- loads and pressure to keep the mail constantly moving. By taking advantage of EAP services, ployer unless the employee gives permission or if there is a you can improve your overall well-being, mainthreat of harm to themselves or others. tain better focus, and reduce the risk of accidents Are EAP services free for employees? and errors caused by stress or distraction. Taking EAP services are provided at no cost to USPS employees. care of yourself is beneficial to all your loved The Employee Assistance Program cost is covered by the ones including your brothers and sisters on the United States Postal Service as part of the employee bene- workroom floor.

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Important Information

4. Requesting Annual Leave

Every Mail Handler Needs to Know Brothers and Sisters,

T

here is important information that I want to share with each of you. Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect your rights under our National Agreement and ensure that we continue to hold management accountable.

If you have any questions or need clarification on any of the information below, please don't hesitate to contact me. I will be more than happy to discuss any of these issues with you.

By Samuel T Koduah Vice President Local 321& Branch President Denver RPDC

in winning a grievance.

1. Witness Statements Matter A well-written witness statement can make the difference

When preparing a statement, please ensure that it includes: •

Your signature and the date you signed the statement.

•

The date the incident occurred.

•

The beginning and ending times of the incident, if applicable.

• The names of everyone involved or anyone who witnessed the event.

A clear and factual description of what you personally observed.

The more detailed and accurate your statement, the stronger the Union's case.

2. If Management Says You're "Off the Clock" If management tells you that you have been taken off the clock, do not leave the building on your own.

Continue working until the end of your scheduled tour unless management specifically instructs you to leave.

Do not give management a reason to claim that you voluntarily left work. If management intends to remove you from duty, they must take that action themselves. Never clock yourself out or leave before your scheduled end tour unless directed to do so. At that point you should contact a Union Steward immediately.

If you have annual leave available and plan to use it, submit a PS Form 3971 to your supervisor before taking leave whenever possible.

Although this is considered a routine administrative step, it is important because it helps ensure that your leave is properly recorded and that you are paid correctly.

5. Report Every Letter of Discipline Immediately If you receive any form of discipline— including a Letter of Warning, Suspension, or Notice of Removal, contact a Union Steward immediately.

The Postal Service does not automatically provide the Union with copies of disciplinary actions.

Remember, the Union generally has 14 days from the date the discipline is issued to file a grievance.

Time is critical. Do not wait.

The sooner we receive the discipline, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights.

6. Stay Alert During the Denver GMF Realignment As the Denver GMF transitions to the Regional Processing and Distribution Center (RPDC), the effects of this realignment will impact facilities throughout our district.

Mail processing operations may be shifted between facilities, creating opportunities for management to improperly assign work.

Please monitor your facility closely for: •

Article 12 violations

3. If You Cannot Report to Work

•

Improper reassignments

If you are unable to report for work, always call in.

•

Cross-craft work

AWOL should never be an option.

Contract violations involving bargainingunit work

If the USPS call-in system is unavailable or experiencing problems, immediately contact the Union Office at (303) 853-6487.

The Union will notify your supervisor of the situation.

Protect yourself by documenting every attempt you make to report your absence.

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If you observe a violation, immediately notify your Union Steward and provide a written statement.

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Important Information Every Mail Handler Needs to Know

Be vigilant. Protect Mail Handler work. Hold management accountable.

This is perhaps the most important piece of advice I can offer.

Please make sure your beneficiary information is current and that your family knows where your important employment and benefit information is located.

In the unfortunate event of your passing, your loved ones should not have to struggle to locate

If your beneficiaries need assistance, encourage them to contact the Union Hall first.

tary of State, State Treasurer, and Attor-

ney General.

In addition, there are critical decisions to be made for the State Board of Education, the University of Colorado Board of Regents, State Senate, State House of Representatives, and a range of local ballot measures that can shape our schools, infrastructure, and public services.

NPMHU Local 321 Union Hall (303) 455-5810 We will do everything we can to guide them through the process.

Every one of these races matters. The individuals elected to these positions will

In Closing

make decisions about wages, benefits,

Brothers and Sisters, our greatest strength is looking out for one another.

workplace protections, retirement securi-

By staying informed, documenting violations, and communicating with your Union promptly, we strengthen our ability to enforce the National Agreement and protect every Mail Handler.

If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact me. My phone number is listed in this newsletter.

ty, and the strength of organized labor.

Simply put, these elections have real consequences for you, your family, and every member of our union.

That is why it is so important to be an informed voter. Take the time to research the candidates and understand where they stand on the issues that matter most to

YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE

working people. Don’t rely on headlines

Brothers and Sisters, Once again, we find ourselves at an important moment, election season. This is more than just a routine civic duty; it is one of the most powerful opportunities we have as union members to

shape the future of our workplaces, our communities, and our

By Richard Lairscey Local 321 Legislative & Political Coordinator

country.

or soundbites, dig deeper and make decisions based on facts and values that align with protecting and advancing labor rights. If you have questions or need a reliable place to start, I strongly encourage you to visit the Colorado Springs Area

This year’s ballot

is extensive and impactful. We will be voting for offices that directly influence the laws, policies, and funding decisions that

Labor Council website at clalc.net and the Denver Area Labor Federation website at https//denverlabor.org.

affect working families every single day. These include the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, as well as key

(continued to page 8)

statewide positions such as Governor and Lt. Governor, Secre-

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Every condition we currently enjoy has

continued from page 7

been carefully negotiated over time. For There, you will find candidate interviews, endorsements, and

example, when I first started in January of

detailed information on local ballot measures. It is a valuable

2001, I made just over $12 an hour at the

resource designed to help union members make informed, confi-

beginning step, despite what current pay

dent decisions at the ballot box.

scales might suggest for those hired be-

Brothers and Sisters, our strength has always come from stand-

fore February 2013. I can assure you, no

ing together, and that includes at the polls. Voting is how we

one was starting at $24 an hour. Today,

make our voices heard beyond the workroom floor. It is how we

after 25 years, I’ve reached the top step at

hold leaders accountable and ensure that the interests of working

over $35 per hour. That didn’t happen by

people are not ignored.

chance, that is the direct result of Union-

So take the time. Do the research. Talk with your fellow mem-

negotiated contractual wage increases and

bers and your family. And when the time comes, make sure you

Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA). Left

cast your ballot.

to their own devices, the Postal Service

Because your vote is more than just a choice.

would pay us as little as possible. If they had their way, we would all still be Casual employees.

What the Union Really Does: The Power Behind Your Pay, Protections, and Future Over the years, I’ve been asked by individuals, “Why should I be in the Union?” or “What does the Union do for me?” I believe

By Robert Jacknitsky

the answer is multifaceted.

The most obvious response

is simple: to keep management honest. We are all aware of situations where management has acted improperly—performing craft work, directing Clerks to do our work, or even engaging in

discrimination, to name just a few examples.

Instead, the Union fought to eliminate the

Casual workforce, which, when I started, paid as little as $6 an hour, and replaced it with a pathway to career positions through the creation of Mail Handler Assistants (MHAs). Every bid job we hold today had to be fought for and secured. This includes positions tied to new equipment.

Whenever new machinery is introduced, there is always a dispute over which craft should perform the work. Nothing is

It is our duty, as the Union, to stop all violations of the Contract.

In some situations—especially those involving discipline, our actions are highly visible. However, some individuals feel that because they don’t cause “problems,” the Union doesn’t do anything for them. What many don’t realize is the amount of work the Union does behind the scenes.

simply handed over—everything is contested. Without the Union, much of that work would be assigned to Clerks.

And in the unfortunate event that Mail Handlers must be excessed from a facility, the Union has negotiated clear contractual protections and procedures designed to safeguard as many (continued on page 9

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(continued from page 8),

crease. No matter how this plays out, the

members as possible. On the local level, through our Local

union is ready to fight for the membership.

Agreement, we continue to fight for and enforce conditions related to annual leave, overtime opportunities, wash-up time, and

Throughout the process, the NPMHU ne-

more. Beyond the workplace, we also work to build solidarity and gotiating team has remained firm and concommunity by hosting Christmas parties and picnics and provid- sistent. Their message is clear: while a neing gift cards for certain holidays. Additionally, we have been

gotiated agreement is preferred, they will

successful in expanding Mail Handler jobs to other facilities, in-

not compromise on core principles. Fair

cluding Golden, Colorado, and we continue to pursue opportuni-

wages, strong benefits, and safe working

ties in places like Fort Collins, Colorado.

conditions are non-negotiable, and they will accept nothing less. working

I hope it is clear that the Postal Service has never given us anything without a fight. Every wage increase, every protection, eve-

We recognize that our national leaders are

ry job opportunity has been earned through collective effort and

fully dedicated to advocating for every

persistence.

member of the NPMHU. They are hard to

So for those who still ask, “What does the Union do for me?”

secure the contract we deserve while safeguarding the future of all Mail Handlers.

The answer is simple—everything.!!!

Equally important, however, is the role

Contract Update # 14: Standing Strong for Fair Wages and Working Conditions

each of us plays as members; let’s take a

s reported in NPMHU Contract Update #14,

efforts. Local 321 sends big thanks to

negotiations with the Postal Service and the Na-

you!!!

A

moment to show our appreciation for their

tional Postal Mail Handlers Union remain focused on the economic issues that matter most to

every Mail Handler. This includes general wage increases, costof-living adjustments (COLA), night shift differential, and MHA pay. As stated, while talks are still ongoing, progress has slowed significantly. According to the latest update, this slow-

down raises real concerns about whether a negotiated agreement can be reached.

If negotiations do reach an impasse, the Postal Reorganization Act outlines the next steps. That process would most likely move the contract into final and binding interest arbitration, where a neutral third party would determine the terms of the agreement.The update also notes that the union has been preparing for this possibility from the very beginning, and those ef-

forts have only intensified as the chances of an impasse inSTATE OF THE UNION

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Navigating Changes in a Changing Postal Service By definition (depending on the source), change means: make (someone or something) different; alter or modify: replace (something) with something else, especially something of the same kind that is newer or better; substitute one thing for (another):

C

hange can be a scary thing. The wheel has changed.

Styles change. Computers changed the way we do just about everything. AI is the new change coming.

As you can see, the postal service is undergoing changes. Pretty much gone are the days of mailing cards and letters to others. Catalogs have

By Bob Koryto gone the way of the dodo (think L.L. Bean, Eddie Bauer, etc.)

The Mail we process is totally different than what we used to do.

It is now more package-oriented.

New machines are coming in. At the NDC, we now have multiple SIPS machines. This may/may not be the end of what is to come. At the P&DC, they are taking machines out (HTPS and SPSS) and putting in several PILS machines, among others.

There are rumors of more changes coming. Just when you thought it was safe. Even the Mail we are running used to come from a different facility. I don't believe management is done.

There are more changes coming. All this can lead to higher stress.

This is a very difficult time for us. Not going to lie or sugarcoat anything. Any information I can share I will. And don't forget about the contract, which, as of this writing, has not been settled.

The last 3 updates have essentially said the same thing. All about financials. Instead of talking about doom and gloom, how about some positives?

The new machines are creating more mail handler positions.

More opportunities to possibly be on a tour you want or get the days off you want in addition to the possibility of higher-level (driving) positions. I am not even going to speculate on how this is going to take place. The inconvenience it creates will only be temporary. You may not like where you end up. One thing you can always count on is some sort of change.

Whatever happens, please try to keep your cool. Stress levels go up, and tempers get shorter. The last thing anyone needs is to be unnecessarily walked out. And along those lines.

Any discipline you receive, YOU are the one responsible to give it to the Union to grieve. Management does not give us a copy.

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Don't care if you email it or give it to a steward directly. We have 14 days from the date of issuance to file a Step 1. That would be the date you signed. Not the date on the front of whatever level of discipline it is. If something arrives at your house with a tracking number, please provide that. The 14-day process starts on the day you receive it. The more time you give us to investigate something, the better. Article 15 of the National Agreement states: Step 1: (a) Any employee who feels aggrieved must discuss the grievance with the employee's immediate supervisor within fourteen (14) days of the date on which the employee or the Union first learned or may reasonably have been expected to have learned of its cause, unless the parties agree in writing to extend the fourteen (14) day period.

The employee, if they so desire, may be accompanied and represented by the employee's steward or a Union representative. The Union also may initiate a grievance at Step 1 within 14 days of the date the Union first became aware of (or reasonably should have become aware of) the facts giving rise to the grievance. In such a case, the participation of an individual grievant is not required…

The grievant or the Union must discuss the grievance with the employee's immediate supervisor within fourteen (14) calendar days of when the grievant or the Union first earned, or may reasonably have been expected to have learned, of its cause, unless the parties have agreed in writing to extend that period. For example, if a grievant receives a letter of warning, ( Continued on page 10)

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these uncertain and impulsive times. As

(Continued from page 11) day 1 of the 14 days is the day after the letter of warning is received.

As you can see, we have timelines to adhere to. Don't keep any discipline to yourself. If we don't grieve, it stays in your file for 2 years. Nobody wants that aggravation.

Do yourself a favor. Don't hesitate to ask the Union any questions. We are here to help you.

we hope for a new contract that will provide that and more, let us also stick together and help rather than confront each other. We have too much at stake to be fighting amongst ourselves. Our diversity is our strength, and we must use that to our advantage and for our own moral character. In the end, that is what the United States of America stands for.

Union Brothers and Sisters

T

hank you for allowing me to serve our Local Union for another 3-year term. It has been, and will continue to be, an honor to represent all of you in the position of Treasurer. I also enjoy helping you and

all members of this Local as a Union Steward. It’s been many years now that I’ve had the pleasure of assisting and defending

By Local 321Treasurer Jeff Morgan

Equality, freedom, and the right to believe what you want without persecution.

We will continue to fight for these rights and more to ensure that working families get what they deserve. Thank you again.

In Solidarity,

such a varied and diverse group of members, all as unique and valuable as yourself. Each one of you has your

own story to tell along with our different origins and backgrounds. Look around you and see your brothers and sisters of our NPMHU Local Union 321! Isn’t it amazing?

We are a Union family and, as such, must stick together to defend our contract(s) and to continue waging the battle(s) for improved wages, benefits, and working conditions. I have had the pleasure of us doing just that over the years. Whether it was in contract negotiations, processing grievances, or assisting fellow

Mail Handlers with their questions and concerns, it’s been a blessing. There isn’t any one of us that is more unique, special, and worth representing; because “an injury to one is an injury to all.” The Union mottos are cliché for a good reason. Because they are boundless and true. “In unity there is strength;” and those familiar sayings are what sets us apart from the pack(s).

Over the next several years, there will be more challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. Job security is a number one concern, and that is the main issue we will all be fighting for in STATE OF THE UNION

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Wish you would have signed up for DENTAL or VISION coverage during Open Season???

It’s not too late!!!

MHBP Supplemental Dental & Vision Plans Postal and Federal employees can enroll in the MHBP Vision or Dental plans all year long! You don’t have to wait until next Open Season.

Enroll at MHBP.com anytime or call 1-800-254-0227 Monday through Friday from 8am to 6 pm EST. 1-800-481-9871 (for TDD for the hearing impaired).

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NPMHU LOCAL 321 “JEREMY BARRIAULT” SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS On April 27, 2026, Local 321 conducted the drawing for five (5) $500 scholarships for the 2026–2027 school year. A total of eleven (11) applications were entered into the drawing. The following five applicants were selected to receive the scholarships: NAME

SPONSOR

SPONSOR’S FACILITY

Ashley Ngo Emily Ngo Dmnia Mahmoud Aya Elharith Elsheikh Saeed Zay’ Lahann Paul

Loretta Cheng Loretta Cheng Elfadil Abdalla Allaeldien Abdelrahman Carrieann Deguzman

DENVER, RPDC DENVER, RPDC DENVER, RPDC DENVER, RTH DENVER, RPDC

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. The Jeremy Barriault Scholarship has been awarded annually for 27 consecutive years. Local 321 is proud to sponsor this program in support of our members and their dependents, and we look forward to continuing it for many years to come.

____________________ STATE OF THE UNION

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Administering the Oath of Office is National Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Tabarus.

From right to left, the officers taking the Oath of Office are: Recording Secretary – Carrieann Deguzman Local President – Tony Wilson Branch President, Colorado Springs – Richard Lairscey Colorado State Executive Board Member – Claude Ridley Branch President, Denver RTH – Demetria Williams Vice President, Local 321 / Branch President, Denver RPDC – Samuel T. Koduah Wyoming State Executive Board Member – Jonathon Schmidt Branch President, Cheyenne – Ricci Roberts Treasurer – Jeff Morgan

STATE OF THE UNION

IS PUBLISHED FOR THE DUES PAYING MEMBERSHIP OF LOCAL 321 OF THE NATIONAL POSTAL MAIL HANDLERS UNION. ANY MEMBER MAY SUBMIT ARTICLES FOR PUBLICATION, WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE EXECUTIVE BOARD OF LOCAL 321 RETAINS THE RIGHT OF FINAL APPROVAL OF ALL SUBMISSIONS. SOME ARTICLES CONTAIN EDITORIAL COMMENT WHICH IS THE OPINION OF THE AUTHOR AND NOT NECESSARILY LOCAL 321.

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(R-L) Treasurer Jeff Morgan giving (R-L) VP Local 321& BP for Denver RPDC brother Dennis Doyle his retirement Presented Mail Handler Juan Salazar jacket next to him is SEBM (CO) with his retirement jacket Claude Ridley, and in the rear Safety Rep John Nelson (R-L) Recording Secretary Carrieann Deguzuman

Present Brother Victor Link with a retirement jacket, to his left is Steward Annette Damian

(R-L) Steward Bob Koryto Present a retirement

Jacket to Mail Handler Renault Ivester STATE OF THE UNION

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Protecting the Right to Vote: Democra- courts and independent reviews, have consistently found no evidence of widespread mail ballot fraud cy Works Best When Everyone Can that changed the outcome of national elections. Mail Participate ballots are protected through multiple security

E

very American, regardless of political affilia- measures established by state election officials, intion, deserves the opportunity to exercise one cluding voter verification procedures, ballot tracking of our nation's most fundamental rights, the systems, chain-of-custody safeguards, and criminal right to vote. Our democracy is strongest when penalties for election fraud. every eligible citizen has a fair opportunity to cast a ballot and have that ballot counted.

For millions of Americans, voting by mail is not simply a matter of convenience, it is the only practiIn recent years, voting has become the center of intense cal way they can participate in an election. Postal public debate. Across the country, many states have en- employees often work long or changing schedules acted or proposed changes to their election laws. Sup- that can make voting in person difficult. Military porters argue that these laws strengthen election securi- personnel serving around the world, seniors, individty and increase public confidence in the electoral prouals with disabilities, rural residents, and workers cess. Critics, however, believe that some of these who cannot easily leave their jobs on Election Day measures create unnecessary barriers that make it more all benefit from having the option to vote by mail. difficult for eligible citizens to vote, particularly senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, rural voters, stu- The United States Postal Service has proudly served dents, military families, and working Americans who as a trusted partner in our nation's elections for genmay already face challenges getting to the polls. erations. Every election season, postal employees work tirelessly to ensure that Election Mail is proSome of these changes include stricter voter identifica- cessed securely, accurately, and as expeditiously as tion requirements, reducing the number of ballot drop possible. Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Clerks, boxes, shortening the time available to request or return Maintenance employees, and every postal craft play mail ballots, limiting assistance for certain voters cast- an important role in safeguarding one of America's ing absentee ballots, and modifying early voting oppor- most cherished democratic traditions. Every ballot tunities. Regardless of one's political views, we should entrusted to the Postal Service represents a citizen all agree that every eligible American deserves a fair exercising a constitutional right. opportunity to participate in our democracy without unnecessary obstacles.

The strength of our democracy is measured not by how difficult it is to vote, but by how faithfully we As union members, we understand that rights only have protect both the integrity of our elections and the meaning when they can be exercised. Just as we stand right of every eligible citizen to participate. Regardtogether to protect the rights guaranteed by our National less of political affiliation, we should encourage inAgreement, we should also recognize the importance of formed participation, support policies that provide protecting every citizen's right to vote. fair access to the ballot, and reject misinformation that undermines confidence in our democratic institutions without credible evidence.

One of the issues surrounded by the most misinformation in recent years has been vote by mail. The reality is that Americans have been voting by mail safely As Mail Handlers and union members, we know the and legally for generations. Members of our Armed power of collective action. Every voice matters, and Forces serving overseas, veterans, seniors, Americans every vote matters. Let us continue to support a living abroad, and individuals with disabilities have re- strong and independent Postal Service, protect the lied on absentee voting for decades. Several states have voting rights of all eligible Americans, and encoursuccessfully conducted elections primarily by mail for age our families, friends, and neighbors to participate many years. in every election. Democracy is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to be heard.

Unfortunately, repeated claims that vote by mail is inherently insecure have caused many Americans to ques- In Solidarity, tion a system that has long been part of our democratic process. While no election system is completely imTony Wilson mune from isolated incidents of fraud, election officials President, NPMHU Local 321 from both major political parties, along with numerous STATE OF THE UNION

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LOCAL 321 1833 W ELK PL DENVER CO 80211

PRSRT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID DENVER CO PERMIT NO. 1844

2025 CONTRACT UPDATE #15

CONTRACT TALKS REACH IMPASSE

The NPMHU has remained committed to securing a contract that provides Mail Handlers with the fair wages they deserve. Unfortunately, the Postal Service's wage proposals have fallen short of that goal.

As a result, the NPMHU has formally declared an impasse and invoked the dispute resolution procedures under the Postal Reorganization Act (PRA).

The Union remains committed to fighting for a fair contract and will continue to keep members informed as negotiations move forward.