Good morning!

Today, we're examining a specific case of potentially wrongful firings involving union members and an HR executive. Also in this issue:

👩🏾‍⚖️ What New York's AG has to say
🔑 The key to unlocking AI's potential
🇺🇸 DOL's workforce initiative

Here's a look at what we're seeing, what it means, what we're anticipating, what's resonating and what you think about today’s workplace. Let's get SMART!

Condé Nast has fired four employees for "gross misconduct and policy violations" after they confronted CHRO Stan Duncan about layoffs following the folding of Teen Vogue into Vogue.com. The tense exchange was recorded and widely shared, sparking heated debate on social media about the boundaries of protest and management's response. Condé Nast defended the firings as a response to "extreme misconduct," while union leaders condemned them as union-busting and intimidation.

New York Attorney General Letitia James has voiced support for Condé Nast workers who were fired or suspended after confronting the company's CHRO. James emphasized her commitment to upholding labor rights and told Condé Nast, "I'll see you in court," underscoring her office's support for the workers and the union's cause.

We often feel like the loudest voices in the room hold the most influence, but Noah Askin argues that it is the quiet connectors -- often introverts -- who don't dominate meetings, but build deep, cross-department relationships of trust, who hold the most sway. "After your next meeting, talk to someone who didn't say much. Ask what they're seeing, what others are saying and how they'd share a key idea across the organization," Askin writes.

AI has transformed HR, making it a strategic partner with increasing efficiency. In 2026, the HR function will undergo further transformation: traditional job descriptions will give way to agile work blueprints centered on skills and outcomes, and the HR director role will be replaced by a chief productivity officer, merging HR and IT responsibilities to drive both people and technology outcomes, writes Cliff Jurkiewicz, VP of global strategy at Phenom.