I was there because I am a New York City Transit Worker

Where were you…

During the brutal winter blizzards of 1995 and 1996?

During the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 — and in the days that followed?

During the Blizzard of February 2010 — and the days after?

During Hurricane Irene in August 2011 — and the days after?

During Hurricane Sandy in October 2012 — and the days after?

During the COVID-19 pandemic and the March 22, 2020 New York State lockdown?

I was at work.

I was keeping New York City’s buses and subways moving.

I was there because I am a New York City Transit Worker — required to report for duty in every emergency, every disaster, and every crisis, regardless of what was happening in my own home or family.

While others were told to stay inside, stay safe, or stay home, we showed up.
We reported for duty in dangerous conditions, uncertain times, and historic emergencies — because the city depended on us.

So don’t forget about me.

Don’t forget the sacrifices I made — the holidays missed, the risks taken, the years given — to keep this essential service running no matter what.

And after I worked 25 years of service and reached 55 years of age, don’t turn your back on me.

Don’t deny my family the pension I earned if I were to die before retiring.

That pension isn’t a handout —
It’s a promise. It’s earned. And it must be honored.

This message is for all and from all New York City Transit Workers. I need to say this after Governor Hochul Vetoed our MTA New York City Transit Death Gamble Bill for a second time. The Death Gamble Bill is the most important piece of legislation that most NYC Transit Workers don’t even know about, that needs to change and we need to get this Bill signed by the Governor in 2026.

Philip Valenti, President