This episode of From A to Arbitration is a passionate and critical discussion of the NALC’s leadership and its handling of recent issues, particularly Corey’s grievances regarding the union’s current approach. Corey begins by acknowledging a technical difficulty and previews the focus on specific arbitration cases.
The central theme is a critique of the current union leadership for perceived inaction, cronyism, and a failure to adequately represent the interests of letter carriers. Corey argues that the current leadership is failing to protect members from increasingly aggressive management tactics. He presents numerous examples of situations where management is circumventing the contract, including the intentional falsification of records, inconsistent disciplinary actions, and a general lack of transparency in negotiations. He accuses the current leadership of potentially colluding with management to favor their own interests over the membership.
The episode delves into specific grievances, including Corey’s own frustration with the way management has handled situations, as well as grievances raised by other members (which Corey relays). The discussion delves into the perceived unfairness of the current system where management can act without facing serious repercussions.
Corey emphasizes that the union’s current leadership appears uninterested in addressing these issues, using examples from recent arbitration decisions to highlight the union’s apparent failures and what he sees as management’s successful use of certain tactics. He criticizes the union’s response to these tactics, noting that the union often chooses to avoid direct confrontation with management in order to avoid possible negative consequences. He also discusses how the union’s leadership might be losing touch with the realities faced by letter carriers on the ground.
The episode closes with a passionate call for change within the union and a stronger advocate role, urging listeners to consider what they want from their leadership in the upcoming elections. Corey highlights the importance of supporting a more militant union leadership, urging members to be vigilant about the union’s actions and advocating for leaders who understand the needs and concerns of city letter carriers. He previews future episodes on additional grievance topics, expressing a commitment to continue educating and empowering the membership.