AFGE Local 559

If you’ve ever needed help at work this is why you join.

Don’t wait until something happens. Join AFGE Local 559 today.

As President, I am deeply grateful to Maria Vazquez and Melissa Walker, who were present and ensured the vigil was carried out with care, dignity, and respect.

From everything shared, Maria and Melissa created a space that honored Alex Pretti thoughtfully and compassionately exactly as it should have been. Their leadership and heart were felt by everyone who attended.

Thank you both for showing up for our colleagues and our community.
🕯️🖤

Candlelight vigil at Lake Nona VA hospital honors Alex Pretti Organizers avoided political statements and focused instead on the Minneapolis VA nurse’s character and his life of service to veterans.

We’re Still Here — And Still Fighting for You 💪

Dear AFGE Local 559 Members,

As you may have seen, the VA has announced the termination of our collective bargaining agreement due to Executive Order 14251. This action impacts our formal union rights—but it does not silence our voice and it does not end our fight.

Here’s what this means:
✅ Your union still exists.
✅ Your union leadership is still here, still active, and still representing your interests.
✅ We are shifting to remote operations after hours, because the agency has stripped away our official time and onsite presence.
✅ We still have the right to file grievances, engage members, and organize—and we plan to do all of that and more.

This is not business as usual. We’ll need to adjust how we do things. But with your support, we will push to win back our contract and restore our full rights. Here’s how you can help:
• Stay connected — Make sure we have your personal contact info (not your VA email).
• Join or renew your membership — Numbers matter more now than ever.
• Participate — Attend meetings, sign petitions, and stay ready for action.

We’re fighting for your voice at work, for fair treatment, and for the contract that protects your rights. Let’s stand united in this moment. We may be working remotely—but we are still Local 559.

In solidarity,
Sonia Chaves
President, AFGE Local 559
📧 [email protected]