This episode of From A to Arbitration is a highly critical and passionate discussion regarding the current state of the union, specifically focusing on the union’s leadership and the challenges faced by letter carriers.
Corey initially thanks a listener for providing the podcast’s new intro music and addresses audio issues experienced in previous recordings. He then emphasizes his intent to focus on challenging management’s tactics and policies, particularly in relation to recent arbitration cases. He states a commitment to a proactive and aggressive stance.
Walton discusses significant concerns about the union’s B-teams (grievance resolution teams) and the perceived lack of support from business agents and union leadership. He expresses dissatisfaction with the B-teams’ decisions, blaming business agents for not adequately training and supporting the teams. He also critiques the union’s handling of issues like the red-line policy and the lack of response to non-compliance with settlements.
He delves into the issues surrounding the TIERAP route adjustment process and management’s aggressive monitoring practices, such as using GPS data to track letter carriers, arguing that these actions constitute violations of the union contract. He calls out the union president for not adequately addressing these issues, calling him out for a perceived lack of leadership and a lack of concern for the workers’ well-being, contrasting this with his prior advocacy for workers.
The episode further addresses concerns regarding the handling of grievances, particularly untimely resolutions and non-compliance with previous arbitration awards, highlighting the significant problems and frustrations stemming from the current union leadership. He advocates for a more proactive and educated approach to grievance filing and resolution.
Corey emphasizes the need for a change in leadership and a more assertive, militant approach within the union. He highlights his own personal experiences and criticisms of the current leadership, including personal criticisms and the lack of support he received as an advocate.
Corey concludes with a fervent call to action, urging members to get involved and vote in the upcoming election for a new leadership that will represent the city letter carriers’ interests. He emphasizes the need for a strong union and a proactive stance against management’s abuses. He also discusses the importance of getting informed about current issues through resources like Discord and Reddit, alongside previews of upcoming episodes detailing the Memphis arbitration case’s testimony.