Brothers and sisters —
The year is drawing to a close and we have put the nation on notice.
We transportation workers are the definition of essential, and as the nation struggles with a major weather event with zero-degree temperatures and face-numbing sub-zero wind-chills, our members are out doing their jobs. Some may forget that. We do not.
Many events have defined the past year — the imposition of a national rail contract by Congress, a contractual win in Los Angeles for one of our largest bus properties, the pulling together of rail labor to rally around the country to draw attention to the Class I carriers’ practices, and the solidarity of the public and rail worker alike in flooding the Federal Railroad Administration with thousands upon thousands of comments in support of the two-person crew.
Our union took steps to leading the way down a stronger path in 2022. The work is not done — it never is — we will continue down that path next year.
In these times, let us remember to remain strong and united for the greater good. Together we all can work toward justice in the workplace and get what is deserved, even in the face of carrier greed. They will bend. We will not break. In 2023, let us stand united, learn from what was and was not accomplished in 2022, and remain committed to fight the good fight and advance with hope, strength, gratitude and all the renewed solidarity we have displayed the past year. Thank you for all you do — in your workplace, in your local union and in your community.
Please be safe this holiday season, and remember that, historically, from the week before Thanksgiving to the week after New Year’s Day is the most-dangerous time of the year regarding transportation accidents, injuries and fatalities. Stay focused and vigilant at work, and let us continue to take care of each other!
The best gift we can give our loved ones during this holiday season is to return home safe, sound and healthy.
God bless all of you, and I wish you and your families a happy holiday season.
Jeremy R. Ferguson
President, Transportation Division
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