In a significant display of solidarity, postal workers and community members in Kirksville, Missouri, and Ottumwa, Iowa, have organized protests to voice their opposition to the proposed privatization of the United States Postal Service (USPS).
These demonstrations underscore widespread concerns about the potential impacts on rural communities and the future of mail services nationwide.
Kirksville’s National Day of Action
On March 20, 2025, the American Postal Workers Union’s Kirksville Area Local 1888 hosted a rally outside the Kirksville Post Office.
This event was part of a broader National Day of Action aimed at raising awareness about the threats posed by USPS privatization.
Union President Jessie Pinson emphasized the adverse effects on rural areas, stating that privatization could lead to reduced delivery frequencies or even the cessation of services in less-populated regions like Kirksville.
She highlighted concerns about potential delays, especially during winter months, with packages possibly being postponed by one or two weeks.
Ottumwa’s Unified Stand
Simultaneously, Ottumwa witnessed a joint rally organized by the American Postal Workers Union and the Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, outside the Ottumwa Post Office.
Participants echoed the sentiments of their Kirksville counterparts, expressing strong opposition to the privatization plans. Charlie Wishman, President of the Iowa Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, voiced the frustration of residents, noting that lawmakers appeared to be ignoring public concerns.
He pointed out that town halls across the state were being held where citizens sought engagement with their congressional representatives, but many were met with absence, fueling further dissatisfaction.
National Concerns Over USPS Privatization
The protests in Kirksville and Ottumwa are part of a nationwide movement reacting to reports of the Trump administration’s intentions to potentially privatize the USPS.
Kimberly Karol, President of the Iowa Postal Workers Union, labeled this move a “hostile takeover,” expressing concerns about its legality and the detrimental effects on rural communities.
She warned that privatization could result in the closure of local post offices and increased rates, disproportionately affecting elderly residents, those with medical conditions, and individuals without reliable transportation.
Karol emphasized that the USPS has historically served as a public institution, ensuring affordable and universal mail delivery, regardless of profitability.
Planned Future Actions
The momentum from these rallies is set to continue, with the National Association of Letter Carriers planning its Day of Action on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
These coordinated efforts reflect a unified stance against the proposed privatization and a commitment to preserving the USPS as a public service dedicated to serving all communities equitably.