Nation Honors Transit Employees

Honoring the Commitment, Dedication, and Advocacy of Our Members 

March 18th is National Transit Employee Appreciation Day, a day dedicated to the hardworking men and women who drive, operate, and maintain the public transit systems across the United States. This day honors the transit employees who keep our communities moving. 

A Rich History of Service 

March 18 was chosen to honor the history of public transportation, as it marks the day in 1662 when public buses were first introduced in Paris, France. The modern era of public transit was born, ushering in a tradition of service and connectivity that has shaped cities and societies ever since.  

In 2009 the day was first observed as National Bus Driver Appreciation Day in the United States. In 2014 the day was expanded to honor all transit employees, including those in passenger and commuter rail, thus becoming known as National Transit Employee Appreciation Day.  

A Day to Honor Transit Professionals

Our bus and rail workers face countless challenges in their daily shifts, from the pressures of tight schedules and the ongoing threat of violence in the workplace to the extraordinary challenges posed by global pandemics like COVID-19. Yet, despite these difficulties, they continue to serve the public with pride and resilience. 

We thank our bus operators, conductors, and rail workers for their service to the transportation industry. But we also thank them for their exceptional service to one another through the power of our union. Through relentless advocacy and action, our collective voices are heard loud and clear at all levels of leadership, from local management to our state and federal legislatures. We stand together and we are heard. 

Leadership and Advocacy for a Stronger Future

In recent years SMART-TD’s Bus Department has seen an unprecedented surge in momentum. Our transit professionals have won stronger leadership and better protections in the workplace, and their relentless push for improvement is still ramping up.  

One such initiative, the Bus Transit Assault Prevention and Safety (BTAPS) committee, has worked tirelessly to create meaningful improvements in safety and respect for transit professionals. 

We see real changes in the protection, recognition, and respect afforded to our transit members as a result. Today’s transit employees are leaders in the ongoing fight for labor rights, and their efforts continue to inspire and shape the future of this country’s labor movement. 

More Than Just a Day of Recognition

While National Transit Employee Appreciation Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of transit professionals, our appreciation is not limited to just one day a year.  

This union celebrates our transit brothers and sisters every day. We recognize the work done, the obstacles overcome, and the professionalism displayed on the job. We are proud to stand beside you, both in the workplace and in our communities. 

Thank you for all that you do. Your contributions are invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to fight alongside you for a brighter, safer, and more just future for all transit workers.