Episode 190: My discussion with 'The Wolf' James Henry talking about the tentative agreement

From A to Arbitration

This episode features James Henry, NALC vice president and CLC presidential candidate, delivering a prepared statement on the tentative agreement and responding to listener questions. Henry begins by acknowledging the widespread disappointment among letter carriers regarding the tentative agreement and expresses his own strong disapproval, stating he will vote "no" and urging others to do the same.

He emphasizes that the tentative agreement falls far short of what letter carriers deserve, failing to reflect their contributions and dedication, and he criticizes the lack of transparency and member input in the negotiation process. He highlights the fact that the agreement offers little improvement over the existing contract, and in some areas, represents a step backward, particularly when considering inflation. He uses the historical context of the 1970 strike to illustrate the inadequacy of the current agreement, demonstrating that adjusted for inflation, entry-level wages are lower now than they were then.

Henry addresses listener questions, explaining that the tentative agreement was presented to the executive council without prior discussion or a vote, further emphasizing the lack of transparency. He discusses accusations of falling asleep during meetings, attributing this to exhaustion from personal issues and heavy travel demands. He refutes allegations of misconduct from his early career, asserting his innocence and attributing any previous disciplinary actions to unjust targeting. He clarifies that his decision to run for president was not a result of any DEI initiative but rather a response to a moral obligation to fight for the rights and well-being of letter carriers.

He emphasizes the need for transparency in negotiations and stresses his commitment to keeping the membership informed about contract developments. He explains that his plan is to build a stronger, more member-focused NALC by actively involving the membership in the decision-making process, prioritizing their concerns and needs. He highlights the need for a more assertive and aggressive approach to bargaining with USPS and to address the noncompliance issues and the backlog of grievances that currently plague the union. He acknowledges the risk of going to arbitration, but asserts that the current situation warrants such a step. He emphasizes the importance of unity and encourages members to remain actively involved in the union, urging them not to leave the organization despite their frustrations. Henry closes by emphasizing the need to reclaim the union's historic commitment to fighting for its members and to ensure justice is served, even if it means taking a long-term perspective and potentially facing challenges in the coming years.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/