Brothers and Sisters,

Thank you for taking the time to check out our newsletter!

Local 2201 has been hard at work, and the pace isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Recently, we successfully ratified both the National and Local contracts at the American Red Cross. We're also breaking new ground by negotiating the very first Wells Fargo contract ever in Virginia. On top of that, we’re preparing to enter bargaining with Verizon to explore the possibility of extending our current contract—but only if we can secure gains significant enough to make it worthwhile rather than waiting for next year’s expiration and negotiating a new agreement.

On the legislative front, our members, committees, and leadership showed up strong during this year’s Virginia General Assembly. We worked closely with lawmakers to raise awareness about key telecom issues and successfully pushed back on proposed legislation aimed at weakening our contracts and inviting in unstable, fly-by-night contractors who threaten our work.

Nationally and at the state level, we’ve partnered with Verizon to secure broadband expansion bids and funding across Virginia—work that will keep our members busy for years to come. We also championed a bill that would have given public employees the right to form unions and collectively bargain. Although it passed the General Assembly, it was ultimately vetoed by the governor. Still, this marks a major step forward for public workers—and a foundation we will continue to build on.

Our stewards and VPs have been incredibly active on the ground—handling grievances, holding management accountable, collecting data, and securing witness statements. They're making real differences every day, and I couldn’t be prouder. When they're not doing that, they’re getting trained, sharing knowledge, serving on committees, and always looking for ways to grow and better serve our members.

We’re entering a season of challenges. Many of you have been through tough times before, and your experience is invaluable. But look around—many others haven’t. Remember how it felt when you were new and the seasoned members pulled you aside to share knowledge, offer guidance, and help you prepare for what was ahead. Whether it was understanding the bargaining process, the power of mobilization, why we wear red on Thursdays, or the importance of financial readiness—it all made a difference.

These conversations must continue. Don’t assume others already know—make it part of your daily dialogue.

Keep an eye out for membership meeting notices. These meetings are your chance to stay informed, ask questions, and have your voice heard. We’ve faced challenges before—and came out stronger and more united than we knew. We’ll do it again, together.

In Solidarity,
Bubba Craddock