Thank you for your invaluable contributions to Unity Magazine. Your dedication and talent have shaped our publication's new direction, making it more engaging and impactful for our readers. We deeply appreciate your collaboration and look forward to continuing our journey together.
UNITY COUNCIL
MAGAZINE
STAFF
Editor-in-Chief – L. Greg Dorsey
Graphic Designer – Deidre B.G Southerland
Staff Photographer- Delia Trevino
Writer Coordinator- Angela Digeronimo
IMPORTANT: This information should not be downloaded using government equipment, read during duty time or sent to others using government equipment, because it suggests action to be taken in support of or against legislation. Do not use your government email address or government phone in contacting your Member of Congress.
FROM THE
GREG DORSEY
EDITOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LOCAL 3184
As we navigate these uncertain times, we are reminded of the immense strength that comes from unity and collaboration. The challenges we face as union workers are not new, but they are undoubtedly more complex than ever before. Yet, what has remained constant is the unwavering support we find in each other.
This spirit of solidarity is the heart of our union, and it is through our collective efforts that we continue to push forward, overcome adversity, and create a better future for all of us. From the TSC to the Central Office, from the frontlines to the negotiating table, our unity empowers us to stand strong, advocate for our rights, and improve the conditions for our families and communities.
In times of hardship, it is easy to feel isolated or overwhelmed, but we are never alone. Every victory, no matter how small, is a testament to our collective resolve and determination. Each one of us plays an integral role in our shared mission, and together, we achieve more than we ever could apart.
Thank you to each and every one of you for your dedication, your hard work, and your unyielding commitment to the values that bind us. In unity, there is strength, and together, we will continue to rise in UNITY!
PRESIDENT’S Corner Corner Corner
Dear Council 220 Family,
Every morning, in Social Security offices across America, dedicated public servants like you show up to help some of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens. Despite unprecedented workloads and mounting pressures, you persist. Your commitment doesn’t just inspire me—it drives our entire union forward. I see you managing endless calls, processing critical claims, and supporting distraught beneficiaries, all while maintaining your professionalism and compassion. This work matters. You matter.
Our strength has always come from standing together. When one office faces challenges, we all step up. When one member needs support, our entire union family responds. That’s who we are. As we navigate the changes ahead, remember this: every time we’ve faced challenges in our union’s history, we’ve emerged stronger because we faced them together. Today is no different. Your union leadership is working tirelessly to improve your working conditions, protect your rights, and ensure your voice is heard. But our real power comes from you—every member who speaks up, every steward who steps forward, every local that organizes.
Stay engaged. Stay united. Stay strong.
In
solidarity,
Jessica LaPointe President, AFGE Council 220
P.S. Connect with your local representatives to learn more about what’s happening in your region.
During this holiday season
Thank your Union After a year of persistent negotiations, we have secured current telework levels in your Collective Bargaining Agreement through 10/2029.
In Solidarity, AFGE Council 220
SSA Workforce at Breaking Point: Congress Must Act Now
Our Social Security Administration stands at a critical crossroads. While Commissioner O'Malley's recent leadership brought meaningful improvements - reducing overpayment penalties, shrinking hearing backlogs, and cutting 800-number wait timesthese gains mask a system in crisis.
SSA's workforce has plummeted to near 50-year lows while serving more Americans than ever before. Our dedicated members stretch themselves thin daily, performing miracles to maintain service despite severe understaffing. Now, the House threatens devastating budget cuts that would force office closures and furloughs, leaving millions of elderly, disabled, and veteran Americans facing unprecedented delays in receiving their earned benefit
Let's be clear: SSA's administrative funding comes directly from FICA taxes - the same source that funds benefits. By law, it cannot add a penny to the national deficit. The deliberate underfunding of SSA operations is a calculated attack on a program Americans have already paid for.
President Biden's proposed funding increase represents the bare minimum needed to prevent systemic collapse. Congress faces a stark choice: properly fund SSA's infrastructure and workforce, or accept responsibility for dismantling America's most essential social program.
Our members deserve the resources to properly serve the public. More importantly, the American people deserve a fully functioning Social Security Administration that honors its 90-year commitment to protecting our most vulnerable citizens.
With the current Continuing Resolution expiring December 20, you can get involved now by joining our local legislative drive December 2-13. When we all speak loudly with one voice we can continue to make progress.
In Solidarity, AFGE Council 220
o n t h e h i l l
I don’t need to tell you that SSA is woefully understaffed—because you experience it every day. You know firsthand how the workload has increased as our staffing has decreased. Our agency ’ s staffing is at a 50-year low, while the number of beneficiaries is at an alltime high and continues to grow. In 2010, SSA had about 67,000 employees administering benefits for 60 million beneficiaries. In 2024, SSA has only around 57,000 employees serving 75 million. That’s 10,000 fewer workers assisting 15 million more people. In 2010, we had roughly one employee for every 900 beneficiaries; by 2024, that ratio has grown to one employee for every 1,300 beneficiaries. That math simply doesn’t add up.
You see the results every workday when people wait too long in field offices, when employees are double- or even triple-booked for appointments in the same time slots, when callers hang up after waiting too long, when claimants endure lengthy delays for their hearings, and more. You see the impact of sustained attrition, which remains over 10 percent in many of our keystone service positions. We will not see major, sustained improvement in public service or employee working conditions until Congress ends the arbitrary and erratic funding the Agency currently receives. It is time for a permanent solution for the good of our members and the American public.
The bulk of SSA’s administrative budget is funded through FICA contributions to the trust funds, meaning SSA actually has the resources it needs to serve the American people. The problem is that Congress doesn’t allow SSA to use those resources. In the early 1990s, Congress and the first Bush Administration decided that SSA’s administrative spending would be considered discretionary, subject to the annual appropriations process like other federal agencies (while Social Security benefits were classified as mandatory spending and not subject to the appropriations process). As a result, SSA’s administrative budget has been subject to spending caps, sequestration, and other appropriations rules that force it to compete with other agencies despite having its own dedicated funding stream through FICA.
It is long past time for Congress to pass legislation making SSA’s administrative budget mandatory, rather than discretionary, so the Agency can operate independently. Further, Congress must peg SSA’s administrative spending to at least 1.2 percent of expected annual benefit payments. This would provide SSA with a sustainable budget to support long-term hiring and retention initiatives, ensuring sustained improvements in public service and working conditions. With a predictable budget, SSA could plan for the future, avoiding the chaos of the past decade. Importantly, this change would have only a negligible impact on the trust funds reducing solvency by just 30 days. We must act now to right the ship, while also securing SSA’s long-term solvency.
The Union needs all hands on deck to fight for a well-funded future. Together, we must organize around this initiative, building our collective power while advocating for a better budget. I am confident that this is a campaign we can win, if we unite and do everything in our power to make it happen. Let’s get to work!
CALLINGTSC
Balancing Progress and Problems: The TSC's AWS Experience
by Althia Mowatt
As a Customer Service Representative at the Teleservice Center (TSC), I’ve seen several phone systems come and go in the agency ’ s quest to find a reliable solution. The introduction of AWS (Amazon Web Services) initially seemed promising, particularly with its callback feature, which allows callers to request a return call instead of waiting on hold. This was a welcomed improvement, but many employees remained skeptical, given the agency ’ s history of purchasing technology that doesn’t live up to expectations For us, the main concerns are functionality and reliability will this system make our jobs easier, or add more complications?
Management promoted AWS as a more reliable system than the Avaya platform, which had been used during the pandemic While AWS has resulted in fewer dropped calls, it still has its share of issues. Periodic error messages about system connectivity appear throughout the day, and while they usually don’t disrupt the call flow, there are times when the representative cannot hear the caller. These connectivity issues also slow down the system, forcing employees to go offline and log back in.
Another ongoing complaint is the sluggish performance of CHIP (Customer Help and Information Program), which employees use to access caller records Under AWS, CHIP has become much slower, frustrating staff and affecting productivity. Additionally, the Operata feature used for reporting call quality issues is often rendered useless when connectivity errors appear.
A further concern for employees is the fact that management can overhear calls placed on mute or hold. Supervisors have informed staff that even when a call is on hold, management can still hear the conversation. This raises questions: Why is it necessary for management to hear calls on hold? Was this feature intentionally requested, or is it a hidden function?
The previous Avaya system caused frequent dropped calls, resulting in employee discipline, including suspensions ranging from 14 to 60 days. The concern now is that with the ability for management to overhear calls on hold, employees may again face disciplinary action for issues outside their control.
While checks and balances in the workplace are understandable, the TCS VP, Executive Council and 1-800 Committee are working through these issues to ensure the technology works for the people, by the people.
Just as doctors monitor vital signs to assess a patient's health, SSA has introduced a revolutionary new diagnostic tool on our desktops. That small icon represents our Agency's commitment to monitoring its organizational health in real-time – the Employee Pulse survey.
Think of it as a digital stethoscope – a precise instrument that measures the heartbeat of our workforce. No more waiting for annual check-ups; this innovative system allows you to report your workplace "symptoms" in under 30 seconds. Like modern medical telemetry, Employee Pulse provides a direct, anonymous channel to our organizational physicians – the decision-makers who can prescribe the right remedies for workplace challenges.
Just as doctors monitor vital signs to assess a patient's health, SSA has introduced a revolutionary new diagnostic tool on our desktops. That small icon represents our Agency's commitment to monitoring its organizational health in real-time – the Employee Pulse survey
Think of it as a digital stethoscope – a precise instrument that measures the heartbeat of our workforce. No more waiting for annual check-ups; this innovative system allows you to report your workplace "symptoms" in under 30 seconds. Like modern medical telemetry, Employee Pulse provides a direct, anonymous channel to our organizational physicians – the decision-makers who can prescribe the right remedies for workplace challenges
YOUR VOICE MATTERS YOUR VOICE MATTERS YOUR VOICE MATTERS
resource availability. No surprise there. However, like any good medical report, feedback also shows excellent indicators; over a quarter of responses highlight robust support systems, particularly noting the positive impact of supervisory care and peer-to-peer support
Employee Pulse functions like a continuous health monitor, allowing SSA leadership to observe real-time reactions to new treatments (initiatives) and environmental changes. This is not just data collection, it is preventive medicine, working in harmony with other diagnostic tools like FEVS and exit interviews to develop targeted therapeutic interventions for our workplace wellbeing.
Monthly data reports will be published on the Agency website, creating transparency similar to an open medical chart shared between patients (employees), attending physicians (SSA leadership), and care advocates (our Union). Your input serves as vital health data, helping us maintain and improve the Agency's organizational fitness.
I encourage you to think of Employee Pulse as your daily health check-in Whether you are experiencing peak performance or feeling under the weather, each response helps the Agency better understand our organizational health. Like any good wellness program, the more consistent the monitoring, the better we can maintain optimal workplace health.
Remember, organizational health is not just about treating symptoms; it is about creating a robust, resilient system that promotes wellbeing for all Our feedback is like a crucial vital sign, helping the Agency diagnose issues early and maintain the healthy pulse of our Agency.
Ready for your daily check-up? Take your (Employee) Pulse today; because a healthy organization starts with listening to every heartbeat!
socialsecurityWorkers systemstrong keepsthe
Jessica LaPointe, President of C220, AFGE/SSA General Committee Member
Dear Editor: As representatives of 42,000 Social Security Administration employees, we share a remarkable story of public service transformation. Under Commissioner Martin O'Malley's leadership, our agency demonstrates how effective government can work for all Americans.
The Social Security Administration serves 70 million people who rely on earned benefits for retirement, disability and survivor support. Despite operational challenges, innovative management and partnership with frontline workers have yielded significant improvements: disability hearing wait times have been cut in half, 800 number service enhanced, and disability claims processing accelerated — outpaced by applicants. Through collaborative decision-making, we've improved service delivery while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Social Security remains fully self-funded through worker payroll contributions and does not add to the national deficit. This successful model shows how public services can operate efficiently while providing essential support to Americans from all walks of life. O'Malley's datadriven, collaborative approach proves that large government agencies can adapt and excel in serving the public's needs.
The results speak for themselves: better service, faster response times and improved outcomes for the millions of Americans who depend on Social Security. This achievement belongs to dedicated public servants working together to fulfill Social Security's vital mission.
article from captimes.com
ed Native American with Laguna Pueblo Nation in New eminded daily of the rich tapestry of heritage that defines ties across the United States. Our culture is not merely a past but a vibrant and living testament to resilience, beauty. Despite centuries of adversity, Native American ns a source of immense pride and a beacon of hope for tions.
are woven into the very fabric of this land. From the oral ed down through generations to the intricate artistry in ery aspect of our culture reflects a deep connection to munity, and spirituality. Celebrations like powwows and ot only showcase our dances and songs but also reinforce thin our tribes and invite others to join in our heritage. ngs serve as a reminder that we are more than just a story; we are a living culture thriving in the modern world.
ace many challenges, including environmental issues, d health disparities, and the fight for recognition and rough these struggles, we find strength in our unity and heritage. The revitalization of our languages, the of our lands, and the celebration of our traditions are of resistance against erasure.
ue to share our stories and educate others about our ster understanding and respect. It is vital for non-Native engage with our histories, not as spectators, but as allies honoring and preserving our legacy. On November 6th I o lead a National Lunch and Learn for the American Indian ative Advisory Council (AIANAC) Called " Rock Your Mocs!" present moccasins, pottery and other crafts from various monstrate our diverse, vibrant and beautiful culture.
our heritage, we reaffirm our place in this nation. The pride rican culture is a vibrant thread in the American story, one recognition and celebration. Let us continue to share our uminate the path for future generations.
Dyaauunay (Big Eagle in Flight)
I am thrilled to share some significant progress we’ve made in San Juan, Puerto Rico, thanks to the dedicated efforts of AFGE Council 220, Local 2608, and our partners in advocacy. Since March, we have been tirelessly working with the Agency, elected officials, and organizations like Social Security Works to reopen the San Juan Social Security Field Office. I am pleased to announce that our hard work has paid off: the office officially reopened in mid-October, restoring vital in-person services to the San Juan community.
The reopening of this temporary office marks a crucial step in reconnecting with the residents of San Juan. Council 220 President Jessica LaPointe, Local President Abrahan Santiago, and AFGE HISCO Legislative Chair Delia Trevino were on hand to welcome our reunited employees. We toured the new space alongside the Commissioner of Social Security Martin O’Malley, Deputy Regional Commissioner, and other agency officials. For many, this was a momentous occasion, as it marked the first visit by an SSA Commissioner to the island in recent memory.
The atmosphere was filled with joy as employees expressed their gratitude to both the Commissioner and the Union for the return of their office. They shared how important it was to feel like a family again, ready to collaborate with the Union and the Agency to improve working conditions and service delivery. It was heartwarming to see them reintegrated and eager to serve the San Juan community.
Puerto Rico F.O
To announce the reopening to the public, AFGE, the Commissioner, elected officials, and Social Security Works held a press briefing in front of the new location. Prior to the eviction, about 180 residents visited the office daily, with continued outreach and media coverage, we are optimistic that more residents will return for the essential services they need.
That same day, we also held a forum titled "Aging in Puerto Rico and the Role of Social Security," where we discussed the critical need for equity, dignity, and federal job growth on the island. Over the last decade, nearly 500,000 Puerto Ricans approximately 15% of the population have left in search of better federal services, healthcare, and employment opportunities. When basic anti-poverty benefits are not accessible, families are faced with the heartbreaking decision to leave their homes.
During the forum, an SSA employee publicly thanked Commissioner O'Malley for the positive changes he has championed. She praised his efforts to boost workplace morale and connect with staff, which has built trust in both leadership and the Agency.
The collaborative efforts of the Union, the Agency under Commissioner O'Malley’s guidance, and the advocacy of local leaders have created a foundation for ongoing progress. Together, we are committed to pursuing policies that ensure equity in services and job growth on the island.
In addition to the office reopening, the Commissioner and Union representatives visited the Tele-Service Center in San Juan, where they engaged with a new hire training class. The center is renowned for its exceptional bilingual customer service, ranking among the best in the nation We are advocating for budgetary considerations to establish a second fully bilingual Tele-Service Center on the island, which would enhance service delivery and provide stable, well-paying federal jobs to Puerto Rican communities.
As we move forward, we continue to push Congress to restore Social Security Administration funding and address the staffing crisis that has strained our ability to serve beneficiaries. The need for competitive bilingual differential pay, increased locality pay, and more health insurance options in Puerto Rico is urgent as federal Puerto Rican workers are very efficient in customer service delivery, the cost of living continues to rise on the island, and they are left with too few options for accessible healthcare plans.
Together, we are working toward a thriving Social Security program that meets the needs of our community and combats migration. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared mission
¡Juntos logramos más!
Jessica LaPointe
Life After Service
by Amad Ali
Veterans Day comes around every November, and America shows its respect and appreciation in many ways. The President attends ceremonies, and each state holds its own events. Private businesses offer discounts to Veterans and their families.
However, every day should be Veterans Day. I appreciate the ceremonies and discounts, but I fear this dynamic has diminished the true meaning of Veterans' recognition. While many express gratitude with "thank you for your service," we still have much work to do in truly appreciating our Veterans.
A small percentage of Americans are Veterans, but they’ve provided a tremendous return to the nation—sacrificing for the freedoms we enjoy. Yet, despite ceremonies and discounts, the suicide rate among post-9/11 Veterans continues to rise. While the VA has improved, addressing this crisis requires more than government efforts. Both public and private sectors must take this issue more seriously. The lack of action shows that "thank you for your service" is not always backed by meaningful efforts.
There are other ways to show true appreciation. Many Americans know Veterans and could benefit from learning about PTSD and other service-connected disabilities. A better understanding would foster more empathy, avoid triggering behaviors, and improve interactions with Veterans. Compassion, empathy, and understanding could help reduce Veteran suicides and improve their lives.
Like many Veterans, I value the recognitions and discounts on Veterans Day. But we must do more. We enjoy freedom every day so every day should be Veterans Day. As a country, we need to show it.
FINDINGJOYINRUNNING:AN OVERWORKEDUNIONIST’SESCAPE
By Amber A Westbrook
For those of us who dedicate our lives to serving others, work can feel like an endless loop of emails, grievances, meetings, and negotiations The constant demandsofrepresentingemployeesandcaringforthepublicoftenleavelittle timeforself-care.Yet,amidstthechaos,there’soneplacewhereIfindpeace: theopenroad
Running is more than just physical exercise it’s a mental reset. Each step on the pavement offers a release, a chance to shed the weight of unanswered emails and workplace conflicts. It’s a reminder that we are alive and capable, evenwhenlifefeelsoverwhelming.
For me, the joy in running lies in its simplicity In a world dominated by deadlinesanddisputes,runningboilslifedowntothreethings:breathe,move, endure It’s one of the few moments where I can find control in an otherwise uncontrollable world In those moments, it becomes clear that self-care isn’t selfish it’sessential
Most importantly, running reconnects me to myself. In our tireless fight for others, it’s easy to lose sight of our own well-being. But running is a reminder thatwe,too,needcareandrenewal.Whetherit’samorningjogoranevening sprint, these moments of solitude replenish the energy needed to continue advocatingforjustice.
Over my 17 years as a union representative, my passion for protecting employees has evolved with my roles and experiences. Early in my career, I was driven by the desire to file Section 9 grievances advocating for individual employees whose rights were violated by a single manager. These grievances occasionally expanded into group grievances when multiple employees were affected, but the focus remained on addressing isolated incidents.
As I grew into leadership roles, including Dallas Regional Vice President and Vice President of Local 3184, my focus shifted to the broader scope of Section 10 grievances. These grievances address systemic, ongoing violations of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that impact all staff or larger groups. Unlike Section 9s, which stay at the local level, Section 10s escalate to the highest levels within the agency, reaching the Regional Commissioner.
For example, a Section 10 grievance may arise when an Area Director issues a directive that trickles down through management levels, creating harmful practices across multiple offices. Filing a Section 10 grievance places the agency on notice, holding leadership accountable for systemic issues. While Section 9s require the agency to provide evidence, Section 10s demand thorough investigation, fact verification, and compelling writing from us as union representatives.
Though some question the value of Section 10s due to the lack of immediate results, their impact is undeniable. They shine a light on widespread issues, pushing management to acknowledge and address them. One of my proudest moments was receiving a call from the Regional Commissioner to collaborate on solutions after a Section 10 grievance brought critical issues to their attention.
That moment reinforced why I continue to fight. Section 10s are about more than grievances—they are a tool to push boundaries, demand accountability, and make a real difference for our members. The meticulous effort they require is worth every step, knowing that we ’ re driving meaningful change and protecting employees’ rights on a larger scale.
Ana Rivers
R E T I R E M E N T C O R N E R
by: Witold Skwierczynski
FAIRNESS ACT PASSES THE HOUSE
On November 12, 2024 the House of Representatives voted 327-75 to pass the Fairness Act that repeals both the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). GPO reduces SSA benefits based on one’s own earnings for most Civil Service Retirement Act (CSRA) pensioners. WEP eliminates or reduces spousal benefits for most CSRA beneficiaries. These provisions were passed by Congress over 40 years ago and targeted public employees who received pensions on earnings that were not covered by SSA but were either eligible for SSA retirement benefits based on their own covered earnings in other occupations or spousal benefits based on their spouse’s SSA covered earnings.
2.8 million public pension beneficiaries have had their entitled SSA benefits reduced or eliminated as a result of GPO and WEP. If this bill passes the Senate and is signed by President Biden, these 2.8 million pensioners will receive an average of $7300/year more in SSA benefits. The legislation states that it is effective for all benefits due after December 2023. Thus, these pensioners would receive significant retroactive SSA benefits.
The bill passed the House after a majority of the House voted on a discharge petition during the last session before the election. 81% of members voting voted for the bill. Under the special rules that allowed the vote, it had to pass by 2/3 of those voting.
To become law the Senate must vote during the lame duck session to pass the bill. The Fairness Act (S-597) has been co-sponsored by 62 Senators. If they vote yes it passes and goes to the President for signature.
Passage of the legislation would result in a significant benefit increase for CSRA beneficiaries. Please call both your Senators and ask them to support S-597 and urge their leadership to schedule the bill for a vote. Call the Capital switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask for your Senator. Tell the aide who answers the phone that you urge your Senator to support S-597 (The Fairness Act) – the repeal of GPO/WEP. Then call a 2nd time and speak to your other Senator’s aide and do the same.
½ of current federal retirees are impacted by GPO/WEP. Help them get the SSA benefits that they deserve by calling your Senators and demanding the repeal of these unfair provisions.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN SUBMITTING AN ARTICLE? CLICK HERE OR USE THE QR CODE
HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? A UNION WIN? OR SOMETHING THAT NEEDS TO BE SAID IN A SAFE SPACE? FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT AND SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS. EVEN IF YOU WISH TO BE THE MYSTERIOUS "UNKNOWN AUTHOR" WE CAN DEFINITELY MAKE IT WORK. UNITY IS A MAGAZINE OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE.
