On Wednesday evening, union members, environmental advocates, and elected officials gathered in Foley Square to stand with the 139 EPA workers recently placed on administrative leave after signing a letter criticizing Administrator Lee Zeldin’s actions. Organized by AFGE Local 3911, NTEU, and the Federal Unionists Network, the rally condemned the retaliation as a violation of free speech, whistleblower protections, and labor rights. Speakers included impacted EPA workers, labor leaders (among them NYC CLC Interim President Brendan Griffith), and environmental advocates, who joined in calling for the reinstatement of the suspended employees and a reaffirmation of the EPA’s mission to protect public health and the environment. EPA Region 2, which includes New York and New Jersey, had 13 staffers placed on leave. Read more from Gothamist and add your name in support of the EPA 139 here!