Rise Up: A New Legal Lifeline for Federal Workers Under Attack
Since January, thousands of dedicated public servants have been blindsided by sudden firings and job losses at the hands of the Trump administration. Families have been thrown into chaos, and the vital public services our communities rely on have taken a hit. And unfortunately, it’s only expected to get worse as mass layoffs—aka “reductions in force”—start rolling out this spring.
But there’s a new way to fight back.
Meet Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network
A powerful coalition of labor unions, legal organizations, and civil rights allies have come together to launch Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network—a brand-new initiative connecting federal workers with free legal help.
This isn’t just about lawsuits—it’s about solidarity, justice, and making sure federal employees don’t have to face this storm alone.
Who’s Behind This Effort?
The network is powered by a broad and bold group of partners—including the AFL-CIO, We The Action, Democracy Forward, AFGE, NFFE-IAM, NTEU, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, American Constitution Society, Partnership for Public Service, and others.
As Liz Shuler, president of the AFL-CIO, put it:
“Attacks on federal workers are attacks on all workers and on the essential services that our communities rely on daily... When we come together, we are stronger than any of us alone.”
What Does Rise Up Do?
The Legal Defense Network will train and mobilize thousands of volunteer lawyers to give federal workers the support they need—at no cost. These are attorneys stepping up to say, “Not on our watch.”
Why Now?
This moment is bigger than one administration. It’s about standing up for the people who keep the gears of government turning.
As Randy Erwin of NFFE-IAM said:
“It is critical that federal workers have access to legal recourse as the Trump administration threatens and unlawfully terminates hundreds of thousands of proud civil servants.”
We couldn’t agree more.
How to Get Involved
📌 If you’re a federal worker who needs legal support, you can start the process right here.
📌 If you’re a lawyer ready to join the fight, you can sign up to volunteer here.
The Bottom Line
You are not alone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like your rights are being trampled—help is out there. Rise Up exists to make sure federal workers aren’t pushed out without a fight. Because when we protect workers, we protect democracy itself.
Let’s Rise Up together.