Celebrating Progress and Advocating for Change

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Over the past week, many of us have been receiving calls from fellow members, BUEs, and managers about the exciting news regarding the new Collective Bargaining Agreement. This moment is a testament to the unwavering dedication, perseverance, and sacrifices of the AVS Bargaining Team. Their extraordinary efforts are not just commendable but serve as a beacon of inspiration for all of us. This is a monumental achievement, and the team has been relentlessly working for years to secure what promises to be a GREAT CBA.

But our journey is just beginning. The status quo has proven ineffective in safeguarding our rights under the current CBA. While Region IV has gained more attention and new opportunities, the need for change remains undeniable. It's clear that a shift in leadership isn't just an option—it's a necessity. The RVP's focus on securing a CBA as a member of the AVS Bargaining Team has, unfortunately, overshadowed the immediate needs of our members and representatives fighting for their rights.

We need an RVP who can balance both the immediate and future needs of our membership. It's not just about addressing the challenges of today but also about planning for the future. We need a leader who is committed to leveraging every resource, involving and empowering our members by providing more opportunities to represent us as Subject Matter Experts. We need someone who understands that true leadership isn't about holding all the keys but about sharing them.

Brothers and Sisters, for a process to be truly democratic, the incumbent and their supporters should embrace challenges. As it is often said of an incumbent, power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. In the words of Ronald Reagan, "Status quo, you know, is Latin for 'the mess we're in.'"

Again, thank you to the AVS Bargaining Team for all of their passion and hard work in securing our CBA!

In Solidarity,

 Mary