MAPE Members Put Pen to Postcard to Welcome Prospective Members Dozens of volunteers gathered Friday to handwrite postcards, using personal messages to counter anti-union rhetoric

Clutching a beverage in one hand and a thick stack of union membership postcards in the other, a room full of organizers gathered Friday with one message for prospective MAPE members: Minnesota workers are stronger together. 

Nearly 60 MAPE members gathered at Arbeiter Brewing Company on Friday for a postcard-writing event. Over more than three hours, volunteers from several locals completed 1,100 postcards featuring handwritten messages introducing MAPE to new professional state workers across Minnesota. 

"This type of event and messaging helps combat some of the misconceptions people have about unions," Local 301 Membership Secretary Michelle Belmont said. "We want people to know we're not just government workers — we're their neighbors. Putting a human face on MAPE and unions in general is important because it shows we're genuine in our efforts to fight for the rights of Minnesota workers." 

Belmont organized the event after anti-union mailers began appearing in mailboxes across the state. Similar events have gained momentum in Minnesota as unions work to highlight the positive impact they have on workers and communities ahead of the 2026 elections. 

The postcards featured messages such as "We're stronger together," "MAPE is here to fight for what you deserve" and "Unions make life better." Local 301 member Allyson Wehrs said the handwritten notes are a gesture of goodwill and a clear message that prospective members are welcome. 

"We just want people to know they aren't alone and that they're welcome to join us," Wehrs said. "There are a lot of experienced union members here who can give new and prospective members the information they need to understand the benefits and advocacy MAPE provides. These messages are an effort to start that conversation." 

Local 201 member Charles Dixon said spending time with dozens of fellow MAPE members at the event made him proud to be part of the union. He said his experience has shown him the many ways unions improve members' working lives. 

"Being part of a union goes far beyond potential pay increases," Dixon said. "MAPE offers many protections, along with stewards we can rely on. It's reassuring to know I'm not alone as I navigate my career and that there are people like those here advocating for one another and for the rights we've earned." 

Learn more about the benefits of joining MAPE here.