As we approach this year’s Thanksgiving, it is much different than any we have experienced in the past. Many of us are used to large family gatherings, spending time with loved ones we may not have seen for some time and reconnecting with those close to us. For those who have to work Thanksgiving Day, the feast our co-workers put out for everyone who is working and not able to have that home cooked meal brings all our work groups together to celebrate those things we are thankful for. Family, friends, coworkers, together as one.
Unfortunately, with the pandemic wreaking havoc on what we knew as our normal way of life, all these celebrations must be put on hold. Our airports are not going to be as crowded as they were in the past and, unfortunately, some of our loved ones will no longer be with us. Some of our coworkers have suffered job loss because of the reduction of flying. One of our companies, ExpressJet, has ceased operations altogether putting over 700 members out of work.
Through all of this, there are things to still be thankful for. We all have contracts in place that protect us from the whim of the company to unilaterally make changes, such as pay cuts or eliminating the work we do. At this time, it appears there are two vaccines that should be rolling out very soon, which will help people feel comfortable to start traveling again. We need that for our industry to rebound from this dreaded virus.
At American, our members have the best contract in the industry, by any measure. The amount of work we have secured, the benefits and rates of pay are unequalled in the industry. That was only possible with the solidarity of our negotiation team and membership. The agreement was ratified by over 90%, which speaks volumes of how great this deal was. And now, all of that is being put at risk by a tiny raider outfit that leeches onto already organized groups rather than go after the unorganized! I am grateful in the fact that OUR members see through the sham organization and will reject this raiding group!
At Southwest, while we were unable to get a complete package negotiated prior to the pandemic hitting the industry, the contract is still in place with all the protections for our members. While the company has taken concessions from the non-union work groups, they must NEGOTIATE any changes they want with our members. We understand the concern some of you may have, listening to the company rhetoric, but we will continue the fight that protects ALL our members’ work and futures.
In closing, we wish everyone a safe and healthy Thanksgiving and hope for a much better future!
Fraternally,
Dave Supplee
PRESIDENT DIRECTING
GENERAL CHAIR
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