Fear any and all changes to our pensions! Treat these as attacks on our compensation and dignified retirements until proven otherwise!

And don't just be aware of any changes - be hyperaware! Go to meetings. Pay attention to your union at the local, state, and national levels. Social media and traditional news outlets can often yield warning signs and clues. When we hear hopeful candidates for public office talking about our generous benefits - ones "not seen in the private sector" - we must stop and listen. Next, they'll likely try to explain how reforming our plans is an opportunity to rein in costs, stabilize taxes, or "level the playing field." Trust me, these are not reforms - they are attacks!