U.S. Representative Shontel Brown (D-OH) is using Public Service Recognition Week to deliver a strong message of support for federal employees pushing back against what she calls “ongoing attacks” on civil servants—particularly under the Trump administration.
In a video posted to her Instagram account, Brown praised the essential work of government employees across Northeast Ohio and the nation, thanking them for keeping the country running despite adversity.
“You keep our government running, you care for our veterans, you deliver our mail, and you ensure services and benefits reach the taxpayers,” Brown said in the video. “But the Trump administration’s attacks on your rights, your benefits, and your jobs are just plain wrong.”
Brown, who is a member of the Labor Caucus, has consistently advocated for federal workers’ rights and union protections. In both her caption and video, she reiterated her commitment to policies that protect labor rights, strengthen unions, and ensure safe and fair federal workplaces.
Fighting for Federal Workers
Brown’s remarks come at a time when federal employee unions and watchdog groups have raised alarms over past and proposed cuts to civil service protections. Under former President Donald Trump, several executive orders sought to restrict collective bargaining rights, reclassify civil service roles, and streamline termination procedures—moves widely criticized by labor advocates.
While those actions were reversed by the Biden administration, some Republicans have signaled intentions to revive those policies in a potential second Trump term.
Brown is pushing back.
“Supporting federal workers means supporting the American people,” she said. “So this week and every week, I say thank you. Thank you for your service, your resilience, and for making government work for the people.”
Public Service Recognition Week
Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), observed annually during the first week of May, honors the contributions of civil servants at the federal, state, and local levels.
First celebrated in 1985, PSRW is a time for Americans to recognize the essential work of government employees—from military service members to postal workers to policy analysts and more.
Brown’s video and post highlight the crucial but often underappreciated roles these individuals play in daily life.
“It’s especially important this year that we shout out the dedicated federal employees who serve us,” she said.
