The closure of the UPS Swan Island hub for automation threatens hundreds of jobs, with layoffs expected as early as March 2025. While we understand the role of automation in the future of logistics, its implementation must not come at the expense of workers' livelihoods. We are calling on the City of Portland to ensure a just transition that provides robust protections for workers and carefully examines the broader social, environmental, and economic impacts.

Here’s how you can help:

Visit the City of Portland’s contact page: Contact Elected Officials.
Click “Provide comment or feedback to a specific elected official” and select Mayor Keith Wilson from the dropdown menu.
Use the template below to send your message.
 
Suggested Template for UPS Workers

Subject: Advocate for a Task Force to Address Automation Job Losses

Dear Mayor Wilson,

I’m writing as a UPS worker concerned about the closure of the Swan Island hub for automation. Hundreds of jobs are at risk, and this transition lacks systems to protect workers and the community.

I urge the City to:

1. Create a task force to analyze automation's impacts on jobs.
2. Develop ordinances to mitigate job losses, like taxing companies that automate without worker support.
3. Scrutinize permitting for automation projects until protections are in place.
   Portland must lead in ensuring technological progress benefits everyone.

Please act now to safeguard our community.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Optional: UPS Role, Neighborhood, etc.]

 _______________________________________________________________________
By advocating for these policies, we can push for meaningful protections and ensure automation benefits everyone—not just corporations. Share this message widely, and let’s take a stand for Portland’s workers!