2025 was a year that tested organized labor on many fronts — in our workplaces, in our city, and across the country — but it was also a year that proved what solidarity can accomplish. I am proud of the way CWA Local 1180 continued to stand strong for our members and for working people everywhere.
Every day, our union was on the front lines enforcing contracts, defending titles, and protecting members from unfair treatment. Through grievances, arbitrations, and direct advocacy, we pushed back against management when we needed to and made sure our members’ rights were respected.
We upped our outreach to members so they know what is and what is not acceptable treatment by management, when to contact their Shop Steward or Staff Rep if something seems wrong or unfair, and we proved through many arbitrations and grievances that Local 1180 is here to defend and protect the 9,000 members we represent in both the public and private sectors.
That work may not always be visible, but it is the foundation of a strong union — and it never stops.
A major priority this year was continuing the fight for pay equity. Far too many public service workers — especially women and people of color — remain underpaid for the essential work they perform. We pressed the City to address inequities in titles and compensation, demanded transparency where disparities exist, and advocated for salary structures that reflect the true value of our members’ contributions. Equal work deserves equal pay. That principle is non-negotiable, and we will continue pushing until fairness is achieved across the board.
We also strengthened our internal foundation. By investing in steward training and leadership development, we ensured that our first line of defense is informed, prepared, and confident in protecting members on the job. But building power goes beyond representation — it requires participation.
This year, more members stepped forward to get involved. Many joined one of our dozen active committees, helping to shape conversations around legislative issues, civil rights, health and safety, women’s initiatives, retirees, and more. Others attended Borough Community Coordinating Committee meetings, connecting with fellow members across agencies and discussing the issues impacting their workplaces and communities. Members showed up at parades, rallies, and solidarity actions, proudly representing Local 1180 and demonstrating that our union is visible, engaged, and united.
Political action also played an important role. Our members mobilized, volunteered, educated co-workers, and participated in endorsement efforts because they understand that decisions made at City Hall, in Albany, and in Washington directly affect our contracts, our pay, and our working conditions. Change does not happen by accident — it happens when working people organize and demand it.
Nationally, the climate for working people has required vigilance. The current presidential administration has advanced policies and rhetoric that threaten labor protections and attempt to divide working communities. We have stood shoulder to shoulder with unions and allies across the country to resist efforts that weaken collective bargaining and erode worker rights.
We have also spoken out strongly against attempts to target and deport undocumented immigrants in ways that tear families apart and create fear in our neighborhoods. New York City and this nation were built by immigrants. Working people, regardless of status, deserve dignity, safety, and opportunity. We believe our city and our country are strongest when we open our arms, not close our doors. Labor’s fight has always been about justice for all workers, and we will not remain silent when any community is singled out or scapegoated.
Here at home, we also saw signs of progress and possibility. The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s first DSA mayor reflected a growing demand for leadership that prioritizes affordability, equity, and strong public services. Local 1180 was proud to stand with labor and community partners in support of a vision that centers working people and the public good.
None of what we accomplished in 2025 would have been possible without you, our members. Whether you filed a grievance, attended a meeting, joined a committee, walked in a rally, volunteered for a campaign, or simply stood firm on the job, you contributed to our collective success. Your involvement, your resilience, and your belief in the power of collective action are what make this union strong.
As we prepare for 2026, our direction is clear. We will continue fighting for pay equity, strong contracts, and the protection of civil service titles. We will remain vigilant in enforcing our agreements, active in legislative advocacy, and committed to building coalitions across the labor movement. Just as importantly, we will continue encouraging member involvement at every level because a union’s true strength lies in its members.
The challenges ahead are real but so is labor's strength and determination to make a better life for all working people. Together, we will continue to defend our rights, expand opportunity, welcome all who call this city home, and build a stronger labor movement for generations to come.