We are outraged by the VA’s decision to strip away collective bargaining rights from our union siblings of SEIU, AFGE, NAGE, NFFE, and NNU. As doctors, CIR members work alongside them when we rotate through VA hospitals and have seen their dedication up close. We’ve watched them pour their skill, compassion, and time into caring for veterans. Their union is not a luxury; it’s how they protect their ability to keep doing that work without burning out or being silenced.

Unionizing is deeply rooted in our nation’s legacy. It’s how working people have always defended the middle class, fought for fairness, and kept those in power accountable. Their union power is a safeguard against those who do not have the best intentions for our veterans, such as those who want to privatize VA healthcare.

The VA exists to serve veterans with dignity and respect. Our colleagues at the VA live that mission every single day, and their union is part of that mission. When you take away their right to collectively bargain, you’re not just undermining workers—you’re undermining the very principles the VA is supposed to stand for.

This is the latest in a large scale and ongoing assault against working people that is dismantling yet another of our fundamental rights. If we truly honor service, we must honor the collective bargaining rights of the people who serve our veterans and all workers across the country.