Brothers and Sisters,
On March 5, Local 2507 issued a statement regarding EMSPAC’s reckless messaging encouraging strikes and job actions. I am writing to clarify why this was necessary. When the City or FDNY inquire about Local 2507’s affiliation with EMSPAC, I have a professional and legal obligation to protect you and our union against the unlawful and irresponsible actions EMSPAC has been urging, and to make sure you are receiving accurate information that will not jeopardize your employment.
While Adler urges (unlawful) job actions for FDNY EMS, he has notably failed to call for, or take, any such job actions within his own, private-sector workplace. If our members were to follow his advice, the consequences would be severe:
1. Members would face termination, as seen in recent regional labor strikes, because striking in the public sector is unlawful. Members would also receive monetary penalties.
2. Our union could be placed under administration by our parent union, leaving you without local leadership.
3. Our fight for pay parity would effectively end, as the resources and advocacy required to sustain this battle would vanish.
I want to be clear that Local 2507 has not called for a strike or any form of job action.
Please also consider the following:
EMSPAC changes their leadership frequently due to Walter’s inability to maintain professional relationships. His behavior and ideology have isolated him from others in the field. Numerous EMS leaders and rank-and-file members across various agencies have already distanced themselves from him.
- Walter resigned nearly 15 years ago because he was facing termination from the FDNY.
- EMSPAC Spokesperson Cook is currently facing termination as a direct result of Walters actions.
- It is no secret that Walter and EMSPAC declared war on this union years ago simply because we did not comply with their demands.
- We have learned that Walter and his team at EMSPAC rely on ChatGPT and AI to answer questions from the membership. As we already know from the incorrect and unlawful advice they have been spreading on social media to Local 2507’s membership, EMSPAC lacks fundamental knowledge and experience.
- EMSPAC advocates for a single union to represent all EMS professionals, yet suggest joining forces with organizations that do not exclusively represent our field. The only exception mentioned is the IAEP, its President informed us that they have no interest in collaborating with him. The identified contradictions demonstrate a fundamental lack of understanding of the operational processes involved.
- Adler falsely claims that Local 2507 lacks partnerships, when the reality is that major unions like 1199, SEIU, IAEP, NYSNA, and UFA have all either cut ties or have no affiliation with him or EMSPAC. In contrast, we continue to stand in solidarity with our labor colleagues.
While Walter occupies himself with trivialities, we at the union are addressing complex issues he does not comprehend, as he has never held a leadership position.
To our newer members: do not be deceived by social media messaging. Local 2507 has fought for and established the benefits you receive today. Adler’s mission is not your well-being, but the dissolution of this union for his own gratification.
A list of some of our accomplishments is posted in a message below. (not included on this post)
Stay informed and stay protected.
Oren Barzilay
President
FDNY EMS Local 2507