(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - The Labor Movement and its allies have announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, a new project to connect Federal Workers whose rights have been violated by the Trump Administration with free legal support.

The Legal Defense Network will mobilize and train thousands of lawyers to provide pro bono legal guidance to Federal Workers.

The Network is powered by the National AFL-CIO and We The Action with Democracy Forward, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-International Association of Machinists), the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the American Constitution Society (ACS), the Partnership for Public Service, and others. 

Since January, thousands of Federal Workers have been abruptly fired and thrown out of jobs their families and communities rely on. They have an urgent need for legal support, which will only escalate throughout the Spring as “reduction in force” plans go into effect, Union Representatives added.

Federal Workers’ Unions and Allied Organizations are already fighting back in court, but thousands of Federal Workers still need individual legal advice and representation.

“Attacks on Federal Workers are attacks on all Workers and on the essential services that our communities rely on daily,” National AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said. “Getting these Workers the justice they deserve in the face of this onslaught will take all of us. I’m so proud to announce the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network with our partners. This new network is a critical tool empowering Federal Workers to fight back. When we come together, we are stronger than any of us alone.”

Anna Chu, who serves as Executive Director of We The Action, said: “This is a moment for lawyers to support the Federal Workers who serve us all. We The Action was founded on the fundamental premise that lawyers have the power to do good. At a moment when our Federal Workforce is under attack, lawyers are uniquely positioned to take action. We’re honored to power the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network and mobilize our community of volunteer lawyers to help Federal Workers get the justice they deserve.” 

For More Information On Rise Up, Go To: Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network

And For More, Go To: Introducing Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network | AFL-CIO