Episode 194: My interview with Mr. Charlie Miller and he's not happy and I like it

From A to Arbitration

This episode features Charlie Miller discussing the tentative agreement and the ongoing efforts to mobilize support for a "no" vote. Miller begins by sharing personal anecdotes about his early career, highlighting the significant improvements in letter carrier wages and benefits achieved through past union actions. He then contrasts this with the current situation, emphasizing the inadequacy of the tentative agreement and the erosion of letter carriers' standing within the industry.

Miller argues that the tentative agreement represents a failure of leadership and a lack of respect for letter carriers' contributions. He urges a "no" vote, emphasizing that the proposed pay increases are insufficient to address the impact of inflation and do not reflect the value of letter carriers' work. He stresses the importance of considering the entire context of the agreement, noting that many crucial issues remain unaddressed and that the projected COLA increases are not guaranteed.

Miller then explains the arbitration process and addresses concerns about the risks involved in rejecting the tentative agreement and going to arbitration. He argues that the risks of arbitration are minimal compared to the potential losses associated with accepting an inadequate contract and that a strong case can be made for arbitration based on the Postal Reorganization Act's requirement for comparable pay to the private sector and on the fact that the current agreement is demonstrably insufficient for many carriers to earn a living wage. He further emphasizes the importance of obtaining the best possible financial outcome for letter carriers and notes that the current agreement does not sufficiently address the problems of non-compliance, toxic work environments, and the need to eliminate the CCA classification.

He discusses the events leading up to the announcement of the tentative agreement, highlighting the lack of transparency and member input. He points out the seeming disregard shown by the president for the opinions of the executive council members and suggests that the tentative agreement may have been the postal service's initial offer. He emphasizes the importance of open communication and member engagement in making decisions about the tentative agreement and highlights the efforts of the CLC to ensure that the appeals process of the Renfro charges goes forward.

Miller expresses his strong support for James Henry's candidacy and his commitment to fighting for a better contract and a more member-focused union. He reiterates his belief in the importance of transparency, accountability, and a more aggressive approach to bargaining, urging members to vote "no" on the tentative agreement and to get involved in the ongoing efforts to reform the NALC. He closes by underscoring the need for renewed militancy within the union and for a return to the principles of solidarity and member empowerment that characterized past successful union campaigns.

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