Dear AFGE Member,

I write to you at what I know is a very difficult moment full of uncertainty. You have been put in an unfair position.

Over 2 million Americans dedicate their careers to public service in the federal government. A third of those civil servants are veterans of the armed forces – wearing their second uniform in service to their country.

Instead of being celebrated for your sacrifices on behalf of your country, you’ve been called criminals and low-productivity members of society. You are being subjected to untold stress, chaos, and uncertainty by an unelected billionaire trying to force you to quit.

Let me be clear about two things.

First, the work you do is vital to this nation. Whether you are serving our veterans, delivering Social Security benefits, protecting our borders, keeping our communities safe, ensuring air travel is safe, keeping our food, water, and air free of contaminants, or many of the other critical jobs the government performs – the American people are counting on you. Politicians and out-of-touch billionaires may not know it, but the American people do.

Second, this is a moment for resolve and perseverance. We are continuing to urge you: DO NOT RESIGN FROM FEDERAL SERVICE. Without the work you do, our government cannot deliver for the American people. We’ve developed a document that answers the most frequently asked questions about the deferred resignation program at www.afge.org/DeferredResignation. We ask you to please review this information carefully.

Thank you for everything you do for our country. You are an inspiration to the American people, and I am proud of the work you do. You should be too.

As we defend that work, our union will continue fighting with you every step of the way. Your union has your back.

In Solidarity,

Everett Kelley
AFGE National President

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