AFGE Local 252

Behind every statistic from the illegal reduction-in-force (RIF) at the U.S. Department of Education are public servants whose work supported students and families across the country.

Anthony served in the Office of Federal Student Aid, working on efforts to improve how federal student aid programs are delivered to millions of Americans.

A veteran, first-generation college student, and Pell Grant recipient, his commitment to public service continues today as he pursues graduate study in public policy and public health.

This week we are sharing the stories of bargaining unit members whose work helped support students and expand educational opportunity.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DV_u403EXw3/

Behind every statistic from the illegal reduction-in-force (RIF) at the U.S. Department of Education are public servants whose work supported students and families across the country. Anthony served in the Office of Federal Student Aid, working on efforts to improve how federal student aid programs are delivered to millions of Americans. A veteran, first-generation college student, and Pell Grant recipient, his commitment to public service continues today as he pursues graduate study in public policy and public health. This week we are sharing the stories of bargaining unit members whose work helped support students and expand educational opportunity.

Tune in NOW to Senator Mazie K. Hirono's Spotlight Forum to highlight the dangerous consequences of Trump's plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education for our country's students, educators, and families.

AFGE Local 252 President, Rachel Gittleman, will be testifying to shed light on the chaos that dismantling ED has created for our members, as well as students, families, educators, and states.

Public servants deserve a workplace free from intimidation and extremism. Our members have already endured months of threats, harassment, and instability. Symbols associated with hate and January 6 have no place at the U.S. Department of Education. We stand with our members and will continue to demand dignity, safety, and respect at work.

Read the story: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/12/15/flag-appeal-to-heaven-education-department/87778953007/

From : For added context: “The “Appeal to Heaven” flag is a historical American Revolutionary War banner featuring a pine tree and the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven,” symbolizing the right to revolution when earthly justice fails, originating from John Locke and used by George Washington’s navy. It’s now controversially associated with modern Christian nationalism, the “Stop the Steal” movement, and the January 6th Capitol events, representing a push for a Christian-governed America, leading to its display by figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson and its association with figures like Justice Alito.”