Fri Mar 21 14:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Postal Workers Stage Nationwide Protests Against Privatization Push

**New York, NY** – Hundreds of postal workers, retirees, and supporters rallied in New York City and dozens of other cities nationwide on Thursday, protesting the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) potential privatization. The American Postal Workers Union (APWU) organized the “Day of Action” in response to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s cost-cutting initiatives, which include plans to lay off 10,000 workers and a controversial partnership with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Demonstrators gathered outside the James A. Farley Building in Manhattan, braving cold and rain to voice their concerns. Signs read “The Post Office Belongs to The People Not the Billionaires” and “Hands Off Our Mail,” reflecting the union’s fear that privatization will lead to higher prices, reduced service, and job losses. Speakers included union leaders, Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY), and retirees who shared personal stories about the importance of stable, well-paying postal jobs.

The APWU, representing over 200,000 USPS employees and retirees, criticized DeJoy’s agreement with DOGE, arguing that it prioritizes private profit over public service and raises serious privacy concerns regarding government data. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (D-Va.) echoed these concerns, stating that DeJoy’s plan allows DOGE to “profit off Americans’ loss.”

APWU President Mark Dimondstein called the partnership unsurprising, highlighting decades of attempts to undermine the USPS. He advocated for expanding the postal service’s role, suggesting it could provide essential financial services to the millions of unbanked or underbanked Americans. Many protesters also emphasized the need for better pay, benefits, and working conditions for postal workers.

The protests extended beyond union members, with New York residents joining in solidarity, underscoring the public’s widespread reliance on and appreciation for the USPS. The demonstrations highlight a growing national debate over the future of the postal service and the potential consequences of privatization.

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