Unions Rally at Jesse Brown VA Facility, Demand Trump Administration Restores Collective Bargaining Rights
news.wttw.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 8:27:24 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Political Protests & Rallies, Trade Policy & Tariffs, White House Policy Proposals
Unions Rally at Jesse Brown VA Facility, Demand Trump Administration Restores Collective Bargaining Rights
Workers at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health facilities gathered across the street from the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center on the Near West Side on Friday to call on the Trump administration to restore collective bargaining rights after it terminated union contracts for VA workers last week.
"Every member of the VA staff plays a crucial role in the infrastructure of our facilities, but thanks to the attacks on our union and attempts to privatize veterans' care, that infrastructure is crumbling," said Hines VA motor vehicle operator and U.S. Army veteran Henry Vega, who said workers at VA facilities were overworked and short-staffed.
Last week, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs terminated union contracts for most bargaining-unit employees, stripping labor protections for about 400,000 workers. Union contracts covering roughly 4,000 VA police officers, firefighters or security guards remain in place, according to the department.
"Too often, unions that represent VA employees fight against the best interests of Veterans while protecting and rewarding bad workers," VA Secretary Doug Collins said in an Aug. 6 news release announcing contract terminations. "We're making sure VA resources and employees are singularly focused on the job we were sent here to do: providing top-notch care and service to those who wore the uniform."
Everett Kelley, president of the largest federal workers union, American Federation of Government Employees, said in a statement Monday that the decision was a "clear case of retaliation" against union members for speaking out against the Trump administration's policies.
The Friday rally was part of a union-organized day of action called "Stand for Veterans, Stand for Unions," with rallies held at VA medical facilities in more than a dozen U.S. cities. VA workers represented by the American Federation of Government Employees, the Service Employees International Union and National Nurses United were among those at Chicago's rally.
Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, 820 S. Damen Ave., on the Near West Side on Aug. 15, 2025. (Eunice Alpasan / WTTW News)
"Unfair treatment in the workplace will skyrocket," said Aimee Potter, a social worker and AFGE Local 789 union steward. "Collins claims this will improve veterans' care, but the truth is, this decision paves the way for mass job cuts, terminations and the hollowing-out of the agency."
Some VA workers have seen their flexible work schedules and ability to work remotely canceled since the union contract terminations, according to Anne Igoe, SEIU Healthcare Illinois' vice president for hospitals.
The Trump administration has since also terminated union contracts for employees at the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, according to the Federal News Network, which reported agencies ending the use of office space and resources for union activities and halting grievance and arbitration processes.
Earlier this month, a federal appeals court allowed President Donald Trump to move forward with a March executive order to end collective bargaining at a wide range of federal agencies -- a move the administration framed as protecting national security, noting federal unions have pushed back against Trump's policies.
"The claim that the union workers, including many of us who fought for this country, are a threat to America is ridiculous and insulting," said Vega, who is represented by SEIU. "The real threat to the veterans, who so proudly serve our country, is Secretary Doug Collins and President Donald Trump. ... They're attacking our union because we stand up to their threats."
Joining workers during Friday's rally were U.S. Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Delia Ramirez and state Sen. Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago).
The stripping of union protections for federal employees comes as tens of thousands of federal workers have been fired, left their jobs via deferred resignation programs or placed on leave under the Trump administration's sweeping efforts to downsize the federal workforce.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent rally at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center highlights a critical struggle that embodies the broader fight for workers’ rights and the wellbeing of veterans. At the heart of this event is the Trump administration's decision to terminate collective bargaining rights for approximately 400,000 VA workers, an action that not only puts these employees at risk but also jeopardizes the quality of care that veterans depend upon. This situation is emblematic of a larger trend in which labor rights are systematically undermined, particularly in public sectors where service workers are essential to the infrastructure of care and support.
Historically, unions have been the backbone of the labor movement in the United States, serving as vital defenders of workers' rights and advocates for fair treatment. The termination of union contracts at the VA serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by certain administrations to dismantle the collective bargaining process that has empowered workers for decades. This action is reminiscent of the Reagan era, when unions faced aggressive tactics aimed at crippling their influence. The current erosion of these rights under the Trump administration can be seen as part of a resurgence of anti-labor sentiment that prioritizes privatization and deregulation over the welfare of workers and the communities they serve.
The implications of these terminations extend beyond the immediate impact on workers; they resonate deeply with ongoing social struggles around equity, justice, and the treatment of veterans. VA employees are not merely cogs in a bureaucratic machine; they are dedicated individuals who have chosen to serve those who have served our country. By stripping them of their collective bargaining rights, the administration is essentially undermining the very foundation upon which quality care is built. Workers like Henry Vega, who voiced concerns about being overworked and under-resourced, illustrate how these labor disputes are intertwined with the basic rights of veterans to receive competent and compassionate care.
Furthermore, this situation speaks to a broader narrative about how labor policies are often weaponized against marginalized groups, including veterans. The rhetoric used by VA Secretary Doug Collins, claiming that unions protect "bad workers," attempts to create a divide between employees and the veterans they serve. Such language not only vilifies workers but also casts doubt on the integrity of unions as advocates for quality service. In reality, unions have historically fought for improved working conditions, fair wages, and better resources—outcomes that directly benefit veterans who rely on these services. Dismantling union protections can lead to an erosion of standards that ultimately harms the very veterans the administration claims to prioritize.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for advocates of labor rights and social justice to stand in solidarity with union workers at the VA and across other federal agencies. The rally, organized under the banner "Stand for Veterans, Stand for Unions," serves as a call to action for individuals to recognize the interconnectedness of labor rights and social justice issues. When unions are weakened and workers are denied their rights, the consequences ripple outwards, affecting the quality of services provided to some of the most vulnerable populations in our society. As citizens, we must challenge the narrative that seeks to undermine collective bargaining and advocate for a system that recognizes the dignity and humanity of all workers.
Ultimately, the fight for labor rights at the VA is not just about protecting the interests of union members; it is about ensuring that the values of fairness, equity, and respect are upheld in our society. The rally is a reflection of the resilience of workers who are willing to stand up against injustice and demand accountability from those in power. As this struggle unfolds, it presents an opportunity for all of us to engage in conversations about the importance of collective action, the historical context of labor rights, and the critical role that unions play in advocating for not only workers but also the communities they serve. This ongoing dialogue is essential for fostering a more just and equitable society where both workers' rights and veterans’ care are prioritized.
The recent rally at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center sheds light on a critical issue impacting not only the workers within the Veterans Affairs (VA) system but also the veterans they serve. The termination of collective bargaining rights for approximately 400,000 VA employees represents a significant assault on labor rights and public service. This move, executed by the Trump administration, is indicative of a broader trend aimed at undermining unions across various sectors of the federal government. Historically, unions have played an essential role in advocating for workers' rights and ensuring that public services are delivered effectively. The crumbling of these rights can lead to detrimental consequences for both the workforce and the veterans who rely on their services.
Understanding the context of this issue requires an examination of the role that unions have played in American society. From the labor movements of the early 20th century to the present day, unions have fought for fair wages, health benefits, and safe working conditions. They have been instrumental in establishing labor laws that protect workers from exploitation. The rights of collective bargaining allow employees to negotiate contracts that can secure better working conditions and fair treatment. By stripping these rights, the administration not only jeopardizes the livelihood of the workers but also threatens the quality of care received by millions of veterans. This is not just an economic issue; it is a moral one, as it strikes at the heart of our obligation to those who have served our country.
The rhetoric coming from the VA Secretary Doug Collins, who claims that unions protect "bad workers" while hindering veterans' care, is a classic deflection of responsibility. It aims to pit the interests of workers against the needs of veterans, creating a false dichotomy that serves to further the administration's agenda. The reality is that a well-supported workforce is crucial for delivering the high-quality care our veterans deserve. When workers feel secure in their positions and supported by their unions, they can focus on delivering the best care possible. The current dismantling of these protections will likely lead to increased turnover, burnout, and a decline in the overall quality of care, which undermines the very objective that Collins claims to prioritize.
As engaged citizens, we must recognize the implications of these actions and leverage our voices and resources to advocate for the restoration of collective bargaining rights. This can include supporting organizations that stand for workers' rights, attending rallies, and participating in local meetings to discuss labor issues. It is crucial to engage in conversations with our communities about the importance of unions and their contributions to both workers' rights and public services. By educating ourselves and those around us, we can counter the narrative that seeks to devalue the work of public servants and undermine the critical role they play in our society.
Lastly, we can also mobilize politically by advocating for candidates and policies that prioritize labor rights and the welfare of public service employees. This means voting for representatives who support pro-labor legislation and holding them accountable to their commitments. Additionally, we can support legislation aimed at reinstating collective bargaining rights and protecting workers from unjust termination. By fostering a culture that values both labor and the essential services provided to veterans, we can ensure that the rights of workers are not sacrificed at the altar of political expediency. Ultimately, the fight for labor rights is intertwined with the fight for justice and equity in our society, and it is our collective responsibility to champion these causes.
The recent rally at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center highlights critical issues surrounding workers’ rights, particularly in the context of collective bargaining and the treatment of employees within vital public service sectors. As individuals concerned about the welfare of workers and the quality of care for veterans, there are several actions we can take to advocate for the restoration of these rights and support the workers involved. Here’s a detailed list of actionable steps:
### 1. **Sign and Share Petitions** - **Action**: Look for existing petitions demanding the restoration of collective bargaining rights for VA workers. - **Example**: Consider supporting campaigns on platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org. Search for petitions related to "VA workers collective bargaining rights." - **Personal Step**: Sign the petition and share it on social media to raise awareness.
### 2. **Contact Local Representatives** - **Action**: Reach out to your congressional representatives to express your support for VA workers. - **Who to Write To**: - **Senator Dick Durbin (IL)** - Email: https://www.durbin.senate.gov/contact - **Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09)** - Email: https://schakowsky.house.gov/contact - **What to Say**: - Subject Line: Support for VA Workers' Collective Bargaining Rights - Email Body: "Dear [Representative's Name], I am writing to urge you to advocate for the restoration of collective bargaining rights for workers at VA facilities. These rights are essential for ensuring fair treatment and safe working conditions, which ultimately benefits our veterans. Thank you for your attention to this important issue."
### 3. **Attend Rallies and Public Meetings** - **Action**: Participate in local rallies supporting unions and workers' rights. - **Example**: Stay updated through the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) website or local union chapters for announcements of upcoming events. - **Personal Step**: Bring friends or family to increase turnout and visibility.
### 4. **Educate Yourself and Others** - **Action**: Learn about the history and importance of labor rights and unions, particularly in the public sector. - **Resources**: Read materials from labor rights organizations such as the AFL-CIO or the National Labor Relations Board. - **Personal Step**: Host a discussion group or book club focused on labor rights issues to engage your community.
### 5. **Support Local Union Initiatives** - **Action**: Contribute time or resources to local labor organizations. - **Example**: Volunteer for the American Federation of Government Employees or SEIU chapters in your area. - **Personal Step**: Check their websites for upcoming volunteer opportunities or events.
### 6. **Utilize Social Media for Advocacy** - **Action**: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to amplify the voices of VA workers. - **Example**: Follow and share posts from organizations like AFGE and SEIU, using hashtags such as #StandForVeterans and #UnionStrong. - **Personal Step**: Create your own posts expressing solidarity with VA workers and encourage others to do the same.
### 7. **Engage in Discussions with Peers** - **Action**: Initiate conversations about the importance of collective bargaining rights and the impact of union contracts on public services. - **Personal Step**: Use anecdotes from the rally or statements from VA workers to illustrate the human side of this issue during discussions.
### 8. **Support Worker-Friendly Policies** - **Action**: Advocate for policies at local, state, and federal levels that protect labor rights and workers' welfare. - **Personal Step**: Research local legislation related to workers' rights and engage with community boards or councils to express your support for pro-labor initiatives.
By engaging in these actions, we can collectively work towards restoring essential protections for VA workers, ensuring they can provide the best care for our veterans while maintaining their own rights and dignity in the workplace.