The power of unity in the credit union movement

America’s Credit Unions and the American Association of Credit Union Leagues (AACUL) emphasized the strength of industry unity in a new joint op-ed, pointing to recent collaboration as the key to advancing priorities and creating impact for more than 144 million credit union members.

America’s Credit Unions Board Chair Patrick Pierce and AACUL Board Chair Patrick Conway co-authored the piece, noting that the league system and America’s Credit Unions work intentionally to align priorities and address challenges together.

“Our strength does not lie in going it alone, nor in reacting to every external pressure. Instead, it lies in working together with intention,” they wrote, underscoring that a unified voice allows the industry to engage policymakers effectively and respond decisively when it matters most.

They also stressed the importance of proactive and reactive advocacy to ensure credit unions’ evolving needs are met—addressing current challenges and staying future-focused.

“Our promise to credit unions and their members is simple: we will lead with unity, strategy, and integrity. We will not engage in inflammatory rhetoric, but we will not shrink from hard truths either,” they wrote. “When the stakes are highest, we will be ready—aligned, collaborative, and speaking with one voice that cannot be ignored.

“With unity and intention, we are confident that the best days for our movement, and for the members we serve, are still ahead,” the op-ed concludes.