Jonathan Smith officially assumed the role of national president of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU) on Wednesday, delivering a passionate video message to members that signaled an aggressive stance against privatization and a commitment to transformational change.
“Buckle up because this ride is going to be one of the greatest rides that you have ever gotten on,” Smith declared in his inaugural address to the APWU family, emphasizing his readiness to fight for postal workers’ rights.
Smith, who thanked members for their support and votes, immediately outlined the challenges ahead, including combating privatization efforts and resisting Post Office closings and consolidations.
The new president stressed that success would require collective action, stating, “I cannot do this alone. This has to be a ‘we’ and not a ‘me.’” He pledged to lead with integrity while fighting with everything he has to protect postal workers and the services they provide to the American people.
Smith paid tribute to his predecessor, Mark Dimondstein, who served 12 years as national president. “Twelve years of blood, sweat, and tears that he gave the American Postal Workers Union. And we want to honor him for that,” Smith said, while noting that “the battle continues.”
Invoking the words of legendary APWU President Moe Biller, Smith emphasized that “the struggle continues” and committed to fighting “to the very end.” He expressed pride in leading the union and maintaining its tradition of service to the American people.
The new president also invited members to share their concerns and ideas for improvement, promising a “transformation of organization” and expressing barely contained excitement about the union’s future direction under his leadership.
