Massive demonstrations erupted nationwide over the weekend as postal workers and their allies voiced strong opposition to proposals to privatize the U.S. Postal Service. The rallies were sparked by concerns over plans to dismantle the long-standing institution and recent agreements with Elon Musk’s team to cut thousands of jobs in the coming weeks.
The U.S. Postal Service, an independent government agency employing 635,000 individuals, faced a significant financial loss of $9.5 billion last year. Calls for privatization and job cuts intensified following discussions of merging the agency with the Commerce Department and suggestions by Musk to privatize the USPS itself.
At a rally in Los Angeles, National Association of Letter Carriers President Brian Renfroe vehemently denounced the privatization and downsizing proposals, emphasizing the historical significance of the agency dating back 250 years. The demonstrations, which spread from Arizona to New York, aimed to raise awareness about the imminent threats facing the postal service.
Key figures such as American Postal Workers Union President Mark Dimondstein highlighted the critical nature of the situation, emphasizing the need for ongoing activism to protect postal services.
Criticism was also directed at Postmaster General Louis DeJoy for his efforts to restructure the USPS, including an agreement with Musk’s team to address financial challenges through job cuts. Democratic lawmakers expressed concern over potential consequences of this partnership, raising questions about the impact on essential services and taxpayers.
The rallies served as a powerful statement against the proposed changes to the USPS, signaling a united front in defense of a vital public institution.
