UNITY
Council 220 Executive Committee
President – Jessica LaPointe
Executive Vice President – Angela Digeronimo
First Vice President – Edwin Osorio
Second Vice President – Amad Ali
Third Vice President –Mark Rogers
Fourth Vice President – Shonda Johnson
Secretary – Monique Buchanan
Treasurer – Jennifer Kirkham
Boston RVP – Camille Pineiro
New York RVP – Shawn Halloran
Philadelphia RVP – Nicole McMillin
Atlanta RVP – Jimmy Botts
Chicago RVP – Amber Westbrook
Dallas RVP – Ana Rivers
Kansas City RVP – Jeremy Maske
Denver RVP – Jordan Harwell
San Francisco RVP – Stephanie Rodriguez
Seattle RVP – John Pfannenstein
TO OUR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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.
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MAGAZINE
STAFF
Editor-in-Chief – L. Greg Dorsey
Graphic Designer – Deidre B.G Southerland
Staff Photographer- Delia Trevino
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FROM THE
GREG DORSEY
EDITOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LOCAL 3184
Attending the Council 220 convention as a nondelegate reveals the intricate nature of strong viewpoints within labor organizations. Partisanship here involves various factions or ideological divides among members and leaders, each advocating different visions for the union’s future. These divisions often arise from differing priorities, such as strategies for collective bargaining, economic policies, and can reflect broader affiliations.
The resulting debates and disagreements can create a dynamic and sometimes contentious atmosphere, as factions via to shape the union’s direction. However, this diversity of perspectives is not just a challenge but a vital component of a healthy democratic process. It ensures that policies and decisions are thoroughly examined from multiple viewpoints, promoting a well-rounded approach.
Despite the potential for conflict, the presence of diverse opinions ultimately strengthens the union. The vigorous discussions fostered by partisanship lead to more robust and thoughtful decisionmaking. By incorporating various perspectives, the union is better equipped to address the needs and concerns of its members, leading to more effective advocacy and policies.
In summary, while partisanship within a union can create complexities and challenges, it also contributes to a more inclusive and thorough decision-making process. This engagement and debate are essential for crafting policies that are representative and effective, ultimately enhancing the union’s ability to achieve its goals and advocate for its members. The very dynamics that may seem divisive also drive progress, making the union stronger and more resilient in facing future challenges. Im so glad I was able to attend, witness and connect with great leaders whose goal is to make our Council, Union stronger for our members and agency!
PRESIDENT’S Corner Corner Corner
Jessica LaPointe, AFGE C220 President
As your newly re-elected Council 220 President, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of hope and determination. Two years ago, you placed your trust in me to lead our council down a new path. Last month, you once again put your trust in me to lead our council. Today, I am here to tell you that your faith is not misplaced – and our journey is far from over
Together, we have achieved remarkable progress We have strengthened our union, secured better contracts, and made our voices heard from the halls of Congress to the offices of SSA leadership But I am not here to dwell on the past. I am here to talk about our future – a future that is brighter than ever before.
Looking ahead, I see a Council 220 that is more united, more powerful, and more effective than ever before. I envision an SSA where every worker feels valued, respected, and fairly compensated. I see a future where our agency is fully funded, fully staffed, and fully capable of serving the American people with the excellence they deserve
But this vision is not just a dream – it is a roadmap In the coming years, we will continue to push for transformative change within the SSA We will fight for increased funding, not just for better pay and benefits, but to ensure that we have the resources we need to serve the public effectively. We will advocate for smart hiring practices that bring in fresh talent while valuing the experience and expertise of our long-term employees.
We will also continue to innovate in how we operate as a union. The committees we have established to amplify local voices at the national level are just the beginning. I am committed to finding new ways to ensure that every member of Council 220 feels heard, represented, and empowered to make a difference
Our strength lies in our unity, and I promise you this: every decision we make, every negotiation we enter, and every campaign we launch will be driven by your needs and your aspirations We are not just fighting for better working conditions – we are fighting for a better SSA, one that truly lives up to its mission of serving the most vulnerable members of our society
The road ahead will not always be easy. We will face challenges and obstacles. But I have seen what we can accomplish when we stand together, and I know that there is no limit to what we can achieve. Whether we are rallying in front of the Capitol, negotiating at the bargaining table, or speaking out in the media, we will do it with one voice and one purpose.
To every member of Council 220, I say this: You are the heart of this union Your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to serving the American people inspire me every day As we move forward into this new chapter, I ask you to keep that fire burning bright Stay engaged, stay vocal, and stay united
Together, we will build a Council 220 that is stronger than ever before. Together, we will create an SSA that truly works for its employees and the public alike. And together, we will show the world the incredible power of solidarity.
The future is ours to shape. Let us make it extraordinary.
JESSICALAPOINTE PRESIDENT
EDWINOSORIO 1ST VICE PRESIDENT
MARKROGERS 3RD VICE PRESIDENT
MONIQUEBUCHANAN SECRETARY
ANGELADIGERONIMO EXEC. VICE PRESIDENT
AMADALI 2ND VICE PRESIDENT
TREASURER
SHONDAJOHNSON TSC VICE PRESIDENT
JENNIFERKIRKHAM
PERSPECTIVE Life After Service
By: Amad Ali
As we move beyond the National Convention and approach the end of the fiscal year, we find ourselves at a pivotal time: Labor Day and Veterans Day are approaching, and it’s PACS season for self-assessments For those of us with Union protections, such as the ability to participate in our appraisals through self-assessments, these moments serve as important reminders of the benefits secured by previous generations of Laborers
Labor Day highlights the crucial role Unions play in securing workers’ rights and protections. Despite widespread recognition of these benefits, there is a growing antagonism toward Unions, influenced by sectors that prefer minimal employee input. Nonetheless, we still retain our voices in the workplace, a fact to be celebrated and safeguarded
Our Veterans deserve special acknowledgment as they have significantly contributed to these advancements. SSA’s progress in improving veteran treatment can be directly linked to the efforts of our Union and the Council 220 Veterans Committee Notable achievements include the popular Veteran New Hire Checklist, which helps new SSA veterans navigate important aspects of their employment, such as Military Buyback and GI Bill Benefits. This checklist exemplifies the improved “Knowledge Continuity” that benefits both our veterans and SSA
It is perplexing why these improvements for veterans weren’t prioritized sooner, but the Union’s actions have been instrumental in driving these changes While management’s understanding of the Union’s value may be inconsistent, the importance of supporting our Veterans should be universally acknowledged. We owe them patience, compassion, and empathy, ensuring they are not burdened with unnecessary challenges.
o n t h e h i l l
BY: ANGELA DIGERONIMO
President Biden's latest budget proposal includes a crucial request for anomaly funding for SSA, aiming to address critical challenges and enhance services for millions of Americans This funding increase could significantly impact both SSA employees and beneficiaries. For employees, it could mean increased staffing, technology upgrades, better training opportunities, and improved workplace conditions. For the public, it could result in reduced wait times, enhanced online services, faster claims processing, improved accuracy, and expanded outreach to underserved communities.
Crucially, anomaly funding provides a safeguard against government shutdowns. Unlike regular appropriations, anomaly funding is typically approved separately and in advance, allowing SSA to continue essential operations even if other parts of the government face a shutdown. This ensures that SSA employees will continue to get paid if a government shutdown happens It also ensures uninterrupted Social Security payments and services during potentially chaotic periods.
Furthermore, for SSA employees, the funding could alleviate heavy workloads and modernize systems, making our jobs more manageable and efficient. For the public, it could mean quicker access to benefits, improved customer service, and a more user-friendly experience when interacting with SSA However, the proposed funding still needs to pass through Congress, and the final amount may change during budget negotiations. Implementation of improvements will also take time, so the full impact may not be immediate. Despite these challenges, this funding request represents a significant opportunity to strengthen SSA, potentially leading to better working conditions for employees and improved services for beneficiaries
As the budget process unfolds, both SSA employees and the public have a stake in its outcome. We urge all readers to take action by calling your members of Congress today and asking them to support President Biden's anomaly funding request for SSA. Explain how this funding will benefit you, your community, and the millions who rely on Social Security services Your voice can have an influence in ensuring SSA receives the resources it needs to serve the public effectively and protect its operations from potential government shutdowns. Together, we can help secure a stronger and more resilient Social Security system for all Americans and better conditions of employment for employees.
Workload Support Units at SSA have made significant progress in processing retirement and disability claims. However, WSU employees still need more administrative support to maximize productivity. AFGE Council 220 will continue advocating for more staff to assist in meeting the growing demands. While expansion of exceptions for WSU employees has been paused, WSU employees have made progress in managing Totalization and ESRD claims. A new training framework has also been developed for WSU employees, but the challenge remains in balancing workloads while mentoring trainees. The TSC, an entry-level position, offers limited advancement opportunities. I plan to work with SSA leadership to create more meaningful developmental programs for Customer Service Representatives (CSRs).
Programs like job details could provide CSRs with valuable experience in other SSA components, making them more competitive for future roles. I will also push for the reinstatement of programs like the Week to Extend Knowledge and ensure existing programs such as GEAR and SSA mentoring are utilized effectively to benefit employees. A major issue TSC employees faced was the Avaya phone system, which has now been replaced with Amazon Web Service, a system that offers callbacks and gives employees more control over their work. While challenges with the new system may arise, AFGE Council 220 is committed to working with leadership to resolve them.
Finally, I am focused on improving the work environment at the TSC, where employees were often presumed guilty until proven innocent, fostering a lack of empathy. I aim to improve relationships between employees and management to create a more supportive and understanding workplace.
In closing, I want to reassure you that I am here to represent and support you. I look forward to serving as your voice at the table and working together toward a better future.
In Solidarity, Shonda Johnson
Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Contributions to the Labor Movement
As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds from September 15 to October 15, we take time to reflect on and honor the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Hispanic Americans This annual observance pays tribute to those whose ancestors hailed from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, recognizing their profound impact on American society. In the realm of labor rights and worker advocacy, Hispanic leaders and activists have played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. Their tireless efforts have not only advanced the cause of Hispanic workers but have also contributed greatly to improving the lives of all working people across the United States Trailblazers in the Labor Movement
The labor movement owes much to Hispanic trailblazers who have fought for workers' rights and social justice. Among these iconic figures are:
Dolores Huerta: Co-founder of the National Farmworkers Association (later the United Farm Workers), Huerta has been a relentless advocate for farmworkers' rights and social justice for over six decades Linda Chavez-Thompson: As the first person of color to be elected to an executive office of the AFLCIO, Chavez-Thompson broke barriers and championed the rights of immigrant workers and women in the labor movement.
These leaders, among countless others, have paved the way for future generations of Hispanic activists who continue to lead the charge in today's labor movement
AFGE's Hispanic Coalition (HISCO)
Within the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the Hispanic Coalition (HISCO) stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion in the labor movement. HISCO plays a vital role in supporting AFGE members of Hispanic origin by:
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Promoting professional advancement
Fostering leadership development
Providing educational opportunities
Through these initiatives, HISCO ensures that Hispanic voices are heard and represented within the broader labor movement, continuing the legacy of those who came before.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor not only the past achievements but also the ongoing contributions of Hispanic Americans to our diverse and dynamic labor movement Their dedication, resilience, and leadership continue to shape a more equitable and just workplace for all
United We Stand, United We Rise: AFGE’s Per Capita Victory!
Who are we? A-F-G-E! Who are we? A-F-G-E!
Brothers and sisters, we could feel the electric energy in the room! Our 43rd National Convention was not just about business it was about reigniting the fire in our hearts and souls for the battles ahead!
When the gavel fell on the fourth day, it felt like a gut punch Elections for National Officers were behind us It was now time to get down to doing the business of the Convention. Initial proposals for a per capita increase were shot down. But did we give up? Hell no! We are AFGE, and we do not know the meaning of surrender!
I stood before the assembly, not as just another delegate, but in unity with our National office a warrior in the trenches, fighting for our collective future. The delegates were asked to dig deep, to see beyond the numbers to the greater vision of what we could achieve together.
Delegates were not asked to reach for the moon They were asked for a commitment fifty cents Fifty cents in 2025, 2026, and 2027. A small price to pay for a massive return on investment in our strength, our voice, and our power!
Our brothers and sisters heard the call! They understood that this was not about dues it was about destiny! Our destiny is to be the most formidable force in Washington, defending the rights and benefits of every federal worker across this great nation!
To all our delegates, remember this momen Remember how it felt to stand united, to face dow the naysayers and the doubters That is wh solidarity looks like! That is what victory tastes lik That is what relationship building and respect f one another looks like.
Our work is far from over. This victory is just the beginning We have three years until our next convention, and I am telling you now we are not waiting! The time to build, to strengthen, to forge unbreakable bonds across every local, every council, every district that time is now!
Imagine walking into that 2027 convention, not as individuals, but as an unstoppable army of union brothers and sisters Imagine the changes we can make, the protections we can secure, the future we can build!
Yes, we are asking our members to dig a little deeper into their pockets. But what we are really asking is for them to invest in themselves, in their jobs, in their futures With AFGE standing strong, that investment will pay dividends a hundredfold!
So, let us ride this wave of victory! Let us take this energy back to our locals, our workplaces, our communities. Let us show the world what it means to be AFGE proud!
The road ahead is long, the fights will be tough, but I look at each of you and I see warriors, I see champions, I see the unbreakable spirit of the American worker!
Are you ready to stand up? Are you ready to fight? Are you ready to win?
Then let me hear you! Who are we?
My journey with SSI began in June 1973, shortly after completing four years of Navy service. The military, though an unexpected path, turned out to be a valuable experience, honing my skills in typing and clerical work. However, transitioning back to civilian life was challenging. Despite my minimal combat experience—my rifle range score was 10 out of 200—I faced stigma and struggled to find employment.
In December 1973, I finally secured a position as a SR in downtown Oakland. Back then, technology was rudimentary: PCs were nonexistent, and Steve Jobs' garage was reserved for cars, not computers. We worked with bulky machinery, punch cards, and Western Union teletype machines operated by deaf employees due to their outdated nature. My role involved copying welfare data onto input forms, a task crucial for processing claims in a system that was still finding its footing.
The work environment was markedly different from today. We had defined working hours, no flextime, and conducted interviews at our desks. Clerical roles were less specialized, with CDCs handling all claims and DRTs reviewing work. Equipment was primitive, including microfiche and basic querying machines like SSADARs.
By late 1975, I was promoted to CR in East Oakland, where our office space expanded rapidly. Despite the growth, we faced security issues and limited amenities, evidenced by thefts and a serious incident involving an employee being assaulted. This led to significant changes: the introduction of security measures, an expansion of our physical space, and eventually the impact of the civil service reform, which brought national agreements and improved working conditions.
Technological advancements transformed SSI operations, reducing delays and streamlining processes. I’ve witnessed this evolution firsthand, including a period as a field rep, which presented its own challenges.
Now, as I approach my 51st year of service, or 55 with military credit, I reflect on how far we ’ ve come. Despite the hurdles, I’m proud of my journey and the progress made. Being part of SSI’s history has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our community
MUSIC
BY: L.GREGORY
DORSEY
represents not just a change in leadership but a reinvigoration of our collective spirit, bringing with it boundless opportunities to further our mission.
At the heart of our union’s strength is the synergy created by the diverse talents and perspectives of our members Our organization thrives on the collaborative energy that emerges when individuals from various departments whether from the Teleservice Center, Field Office, WSU, or among the Elected Council Members come together. This unity of purpose and shared vision is crucial for us to tell compelling stories and generate innovative ideas that resonate with our audience and further our cause
Teamwork is far more than just a catchphrase for us; it is the foundation upon which we build our successes. It’s about creating an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but is an integral part of our daily operations. Each member of our team brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table, and by harnessing these diverse viewpoints, we create a richer, more dynamic product. The collective knowledge and creativity of our team exceed what any single individual could achieve alone. This collaborative approach ensures that our content is not only comprehensive but also resonates on multiple levels with our audience.
The newly elected council brings with them a fresh perspective and a renewed energy that is set to enhance our collaborative spirit. Their leadership is marked by a deep appreciation for the value of teamwork and the importance of integrating diverse insights. They recognize that successful collaboration is not merely about dividing tasks but about weaving together various viewpoints to create something greater than the sum of its parts. This approach will undoubtedly lead to content that is not only more engaging but also more impactful.
Optimism is palpable as we embark on this new chapter. The new council’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive team culture is particularly promising They understand that for innovation to flourish and for challenges to be effectively addressed, every voice within our union must be heard and valued. This inclusive approach is essential for nurturing an environment where creative solutions can emerge and where every member feels invested in our shared goals.
As we embrace this new leadership, we do so with a unified sense of purpose and enthusiasm. We are not just navigating the evolving landscape of magazine publishing; we are charting a course for a future filled with potential. The strength of our united team will be our greatest asset as we move forward, and it is with this strength that we are poised to achieve remarkable success
Our renewed commitment to teamwork and collaboration will be the driving force behind our ability to produce exceptional content Together, we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead, leveraging our collective expertise and creativity to not only meet but exceed our goals The future of our union and its magazine is bright, and it is with confidence and excitement that we look forward to what we can achieve together.
In Unity, we find our strength and our potential. Let us move forward with a shared vision, embracing the opportunities that come with this new leadership and the promise of a collaborative future The path ahead is paved with possibilities, and together, we are ready to explore every one of them, ensuring our success and making a meaningful impact through our collective efforts.
COUNCIL220'SWINSFOR COUNCIL220'SWINSFOR COUNCIL220'SWINSFOR
As Counc stablish 11 active committees filled with dedicated activists We secured significant wins, including reopening six contract articles and negotiating a key Telework Eligibility MOU. I organized national rallies and a Town Hall with AFGE National, Social Security Works, and Senator Sanders, launching the Contract Action Team (CAT) to drive union-wide mobilization for better contracts and new SSA leadership. Our advocacy led to a historic $785 million funding increase in FY 2023, enabling the SSA to hire 2,400 new employees We worked with Cooley Public Strategies to produce a report on workforce issues, influencing Congress and the media
Partnering with the Deputy Commissioner of Operations (DCO), we addressed morale and attrition by improving entry-level training and launching studies on workforce retention. These steps helped lay a foundation for long-term improvements in working conditions.
2023 Breakthroughs:
In 2023, we continued building momentum, securing a new labor-friendly Commissioner and expanding our contract negotiations. We launched a grassroots media campaign to prevent budget cuts and furloughs, garnering national media attention on NPR, NBC, CBS, and more. Our focus on working conditions led to improvements in training, telework, and mentorship programs. We secured third-party evaluations of entry-level training, addressing longstanding issues affecting new employees Membership strength held steady despite record levels of attrition We maintained a strong presence in Congress through testimony and hearings.
2024 and Beyond:
This year, we ’ ve made further progress, securing MOUs on episodic telework, time-off awards, and adjudication time pilot expansion We also avoided government shutdowns and added thousands of new hires through persistent lobbying, securing an additional $100 million for SSA’s FY 2024 budget Our work continues with new initiatives, including improving workplace culture through pro-social programs, advocating for better mental health support, and pushing forward on training improvements. We’ve built a productive working relationship with Commissioner O'Malley and are quickly addressing challenges like telework suspensions and common calendar issues stemming from workforce shortages.
The Road Ahead:
As we look forward, we remain committed to three key goals: An exceptional representation, employee development, and public service advocacy. With the possibility of major political shifts ahead, we must stay united and focused on protecting our rights and the work we do. Together, we will continue to fight for better working conditions and elevate our union’s role in securing a brighter future for all.
In solidarity, Jessica
LaPointe Council President
S S A F A I R N E S S A C T
By: Witold Skwierczynski
Federal retirees have an excellent opportunity this year to benefit from the possible repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provisions (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These provisions, enacted by Congress in 1977 (WEP) and 1983 (GPO) have depressed federal employee pension benefits.
WEP reduces SSA benefits of public sector workers based on their own earnings if they receive pensions based on non-covered earnings. Most federal CSRA retirees receive significantly reduced SSA retirement benefits due to WEP. 2 million people are adversely affected by WEP
GPO reduces SSA spousal benefits of federal retirees by 2/3 the amount of their CSRA pensions For most CSRA retirees that eliminates their entitlement to SSA spousal benefits. Over 800,000 are affected by GPO.
Bills have been introduced in both the House (HR 82) and the Senate (S-597) to repeal WEP/GPO. There are 326 co-sponsors for this legislation in the House (a significant bi-partisan majority) and 62 cosponsors in the Senate (a bipartisan majority that is filibuster proof).
All that's necessary for the repeal of WEP/GPO is for Congress to schedule a vote. The House sponsors, Congressman Graves (R-La) and Spanberger (D-Va), have requested a discharge petition to force a vote on the bill in the House Senator Schumer is considering scheduling a vote in the Senate.
It's important that we all contact our House members and request them to support a discharge petition so that a vote can be scheduled in the House and these unfair pension reducing provisions can be repealed.
Below is a link from an allied Union (NEA) that you can use to send a letter to your Congressperson asking them to support a discharge petition so a vote can be conducted on the repeal of GPO/WEP. You can just send the text as written or alter the text to explain how these provisions have adversely affected your family. It's vital that we do this now and help public employee retirees receive the benefits that they are entitled to receive.
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I HOPE THERE'S A 'SHORTER WORKDAYS' SECTION IN THERE SOMEWHERE!
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