On July 9th, 2024, the Union Veterans Council (UVC) made history by leading a large-scale delegation of union veteran workers to the White House. This unprecedented event highlighted the critical role of union veterans in projects made possible by the Biden administration's pro-worker and pro-labor policies and legislation.
The event saw representation from over a dozen unions, underscoring how unions are at the forefront of not only veterans' employment but also comprehensive support services. Notable among these were the Machinist Veterans Affairs, Teamsters Military Assistance Program, Utility Workers Military Assistance Programs, Elevator Constructors, SMART, American Federation of Government Employees, International Association of Fire Fighters, The United Association's Veterans in Piping, the APWU's Veterans Affairs, and many more, showcasing the labor movement's unwavering commitment to the men and women who have served this country.
Throughout the meeting, attendees had the opportunity to hear from multiple agencies and engage in direct dialogue with senior administration staff, including VA Secretary Denis McDonough. These interactions demonstrated the administration's dedication to addressing the needs and concerns of union veterans.
Executive Director Will Attig said, "We have a saying in the UVC that we work to provide union veterans with the tools, platform, and support this community deserves to make their voices heard. On Tuesday, we finally saw union veterans recognized and listened to on the highest platform."
This historic meeting affirmed that the over 1 million union veterans within the labor movement have a significant voice and a place at the table, directly through the Union Veterans Council. For many attendees, this was the first time they felt truly heard as a collective group, marking a significant milestone in the UVC's mission over the past five years.
Union veterans and representatives left the meeting with a renewed sense of empowerment and solidarity, bolstered by their ability to influence policy and advocate for their rights at the highest levels of government.
The UVC's "Forge Ahead: Veterans Building America's Future with Unions" initiative continues to pave the way for a brighter future, ensuring that veterans have access to life-sustaining jobs and comprehensive support as they transition back to civilian life. This meeting at the White House was a powerful testament to the strength and unity of union veterans and the labor movement's commitment to their success.
