I am writing to suggest that the time has come for closer dialogue between our credit union trade associations, CUNA and NAFCU, to examine the possibilities of merger in order to better protect and defend the credit union charter from attacks from the newly forming American Bankers Association. From their letter to member banks:

"This merger will prove the adage that the sum is greater than the parts. The ABA and ACB together will be a stronger association that speaks with a more unified and influential voice for our industry. Our services to our members will combine the best of what we both offer and be better than what either one of us could achieve independently. It will be a progressive, forward-looking, entrepreneurial organization with an unmatched commitment to our members' success."

The bankers are learning to cooperate and will probably end up with an even stronger voice. Isn't it imperative that we ensure we have a strong unified voice as well? Our movement has two talented leaders in Dan Mica and Fred Becker that are frequently positioned as competitors in front of Congress and the administration. Each organization tends to take fairly similar, yet slightly different stands in order to better differentiate themselves, which can affect our efforts in front of elected officials. Isn't it time we speak with one, unified voice?