Honoring the Fallen, Protecting the Living

Honoring the Fallen, Protecting the Living

May 3, 2024 | Featured, Featured News, Front Page, GOIAM Stories, MNPL, Perusals, Recent News, Row 2, Safety

Honoring the Fallen, Protecting the Living

Honoring the Fallen, Protecting the Living

IAM141.org
3 May 2024

On April 28, the Machinists Union gathered to honor workers lost to preventable accidents on Workers Memorial Day, pledging to continue the fight for safer working conditions.

Workers Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to workplace hazards and the need for better safety standards. Among those remembered was Albert Williams, a highly respected ramp agent at United Airlines, who tragically suffered a heart attack while at work and passed away in August 2022. A dedicated union representative, he was deeply involved in community service events through Houston’s Local Lodge 811, where he also served as an auditor. Born in Louisiana, Williams was a devoted father and avid LSU football fan.

Although he never got to see his sons reach their college football dreams, he would have been proud. AJ, his younger son, is a freshman at Mary-Harden Baylor, while his elder son, Zion Williams, is close to graduating from the University of Houston. His daughter, Jaden, is a medical assistant in the Dallas area. Williams had been married to his wife Jaha for 20 years before his untimely passing.

Albert was among the workers honored at this year’s ceremony. 

Albert Williams Community

From Right, Gary Welch, Victor Hernandez, and Albert Williams at a Community BBQ

Bricks at the Worker’s Memorial

Screenshot

Machinists Union Worker’s Memorial

Albert Williams Going Home

Albert Williams

“Despite all of our progress, we are still reminded every year of the dangerous nature of our work,” emphasized IAM International President Brian Bryant. “We are reminded that it is our union’s most sacred duty to ensure our members’ safety.”

The ceremony was held at the IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Workers’ Memorial Park. It brought together union members and leaders to honor workers who lost their lives due to preventable workplace injuries and illnesses. The event emphasized the importance of continuing to advocate for strong safety standards in workplaces across the country. A wreath was laid at the memorial to pay tribute to those who had passed, and attendees observed a moment of silence in their honor.

Brian Bryant and Michael Oathout, IAM Safety and Health Director, delivered remarks urging members to hold employers accountable and fight for safe working conditions. Oathout stated, “We must continue to bond together to keep our families, coworkers, and neighbors safe. We must hold employers accountable to keep workers safe. We must fight to protect our fundamental right to a safe job.” The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of unsafe workplaces and the need for continued vigilance in protecting workers’ rights to a safe job.

Recent statistics on workplace fatalities emphasize the urgency of this cause. In 2022, workplace fatalities rose by 5.7%, resulting in 5,486 deaths, with transportation incidents being the leading cause, accounting for 37.7% of all deaths. Violence-related deaths also saw an increase of 11.6%, underscoring the range of risks that workers face. Workers in transportation and material moving occupations experienced the highest number of fatalities, followed by construction workers. Additionally, significant disparities were found in fatality rates among different demographics, particularly Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino workers.

These statistics highlight the critical importance of workplace safety initiatives and reinforce the need for stronger regulations to prevent these preventable tragedies.

To watch the ceremony, click here. To view the full photo gallery, click here.

Fallen Members: 18
Frederick M. Anderson, Jr. – TCU/IAM Local 6334
James Balk – IAM Local 2777
Albert Banks Sr. – IAM Local 1445
Matthew Carter – IAM Local 4 
Derek James Etzcorn – IAM Local 1635
Bryan Fleigle – IAM Local 175
Daniel Fumar – IAM Local 1781
Sandra Grosberger – IAM Local 175
John Hammerbacker Jr. – IAM Local 175
Sherri Harrison – IAM Local 175
Devvin Patrick Hasson – TCU/IAM Local 6004
Otha “Jay” Jones Jr. – IAM Local 2003
Kevin Lamond – IAM Local 175
Robert “Jeff” Moore – IAM Local 18
Robert H. Skinner – IAM Local 18
Christina Smith – IAM Local 1635
Danny Suafoa – IAM Local 2202/District 142
Terry Trowbridge – IAM Local 175 

Special Remembrances: 11
Retired Business Rep for IAM Local 1769/District 75 – Charles Cooper Jr.
Retired IAM Local 2003 Member – Carl “CT”  Dean
Retired GST Special Assistant – Steven Dunn
Retired Railroad Coordinator/General Chair – Mark “Flip” Filipovic
Grand Lodge Auditor – Michael Gonzales
Retired Western Territory Chief of Staff – Robert Gregory
Retired Director of Legislative and MNPL – William Holayter
Retired IAM Local 1125 Life Member – Wayne Ihrig
Retired Headquarters Resident General Vice President – George Poulin 
Retired Grand Lodge Representative – Jack Sams
Retired IAM Local  777 Member – Terry R. Sutton

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Honoring the Fallen, Protecting the Living

3 May 2024

On April 28, the Machinists Union gathered to honor workers lost to preventable accidents on Workers Memorial Day, pledging to continue the fight for safer working conditions.

Workers Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to workplace hazards and the need for better safety standards. Among those remembered was Albert Williams, a highly respected ramp agent at United Airlines, who tragically suffered a heart attack while at work and passed away in August 2022. A dedicated union representative, he was deeply involved in community service events through Houston’s Local Lodge 811, where he also served as an auditor. Born in Louisiana, Williams was a devoted father and avid LSU football fan.

Although he never got to see his sons reach their college football dreams, he would have been proud. AJ, his younger son, is a freshman at Mary-Harden Baylor, while his elder son, Zion Williams, is close to graduating from the University of Houston. His daughter, Jaden, is a medical assistant in the Dallas area. Williams had been married to his wife Jaha for 20 years before his untimely passing.

Albert was among the workers honored at this year’s ceremony.

Albert Williams Community

From Right, Gary Welch, Victor Hernandez, and Albert Williams at a Community BBQ

Bricks at the Worker’s Memorial

Screenshot

Machinists Union Worker’s Memorial

Albert Williams Going Home

Albert Williams

“Despite all of our progress, we are still reminded every year of the dangerous nature of our work,” emphasized IAM International President Brian Bryant. “We are reminded that it is our union’s most sacred duty to ensure our members’ safety.”

The ceremony was held at the IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center at Workers’ Memorial Park. It brought together union members and leaders to honor workers who lost their lives due to preventable workplace injuries and illnesses. The event emphasized the importance of continuing to advocate for strong safety standards in workplaces across the country. A wreath was laid at the memorial to pay tribute to those who had passed, and attendees observed a moment of silence in their honor.

Brian Bryant and Michael Oathout, IAM Safety and Health Director, delivered remarks urging members to hold employers accountable and fight for safe working conditions. Oathout stated, “We must continue to bond together to keep our families, coworkers, and neighbors safe. We must hold employers accountable to keep workers safe. We must fight to protect our fundamental right to a safe job.” The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the human cost of unsafe workplaces and the need for continued vigilance in protecting workers’ rights to a safe job.

Recent statistics on workplace fatalities emphasize the urgency of this cause. In 2022, workplace fatalities rose by 5.7%, resulting in 5,486 deaths, with transportation incidents being the leading cause, accounting for 37.7% of all deaths. Violence-related deaths also saw an increase of 11.6%, underscoring the range of risks that workers face. Workers in transportation and material moving occupations experienced the highest number of fatalities, followed by construction workers. Additionally, significant disparities were found in fatality rates among different demographics, particularly Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino workers.

These statistics highlight the critical importance of workplace safety initiatives and reinforce the need for stronger regulations to prevent these preventable tragedies.

To watch the ceremony, click here. To view the full photo gallery, click here.

Fallen Members: 18
Frederick M. Anderson, Jr. – TCU/IAM Local 6334
James Balk – IAM Local 2777
Albert Banks Sr. – IAM Local 1445
Matthew Carter – IAM Local 4 
Derek James Etzcorn – IAM Local 1635
Bryan Fleigle – IAM Local 175
Daniel Fumar – IAM Local 1781
Sandra Grosberger – IAM Local 175
John Hammerbacker Jr. – IAM Local 175
Sherri Harrison – IAM Local 175
Devvin Patrick Hasson – TCU/IAM Local 6004
Otha “Jay” Jones Jr. – IAM Local 2003
Kevin Lamond – IAM Local 175
Robert “Jeff” Moore – IAM Local 18
Robert H. Skinner – IAM Local 18
Christina Smith – IAM Local 1635
Danny Suafoa – IAM Local 2202/District 142
Terry Trowbridge – IAM Local 175 

Special Remembrances: 11
Retired Business Rep for IAM Local 1769/District 75 – Charles Cooper Jr.
Retired IAM Local 2003 Member – Carl “CT”  Dean
Retired GST Special Assistant – Steven Dunn
Retired Railroad Coordinator/General Chair – Mark “Flip” Filipovic
Grand Lodge Auditor – Michael Gonzales
Retired Western Territory Chief of Staff – Robert Gregory
Retired Director of Legislative and MNPL – William Holayter
Retired IAM Local 1125 Life Member – Wayne Ihrig
Retired Headquarters Resident General Vice President – George Poulin 
Retired Grand Lodge Representative – Jack Sams
Retired IAM Local  777 Member – Terry R. Sutton

Related

New DOT Rules Promise to Make Air Travel Less Horrible

New DOT Rules Promise to Make Air Travel Less Horrible

Apr 25, 2024 | Featured, Featured News, Front Page, MNPL, Other News, Recent News, Row 2

New DOT Rules Promise to Make Air Travel Less Horrible

New DOT Rules Promise to Make Air Travel Less Horrible

IAM141.org
25 April 2024

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Pete Buttigieg, announced sweeping new regulations on Wednesday, requiring airlines to offer automatic cash refunds for significant delays and cancellations, marking a major shift towards enhanced passenger rights.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them – without headaches or haggling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers.”

Currently, airlines can offer passengers non-monetary refunds, such as free miles, for things like flight cancellations, delayed baggage, and poor Wi-Fi connections. The new rules will require airlines to refund the money passengers have paid for these services without requiring those passengers to ask for cash refunds.

“Airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops,” stated Secretary Buttigieg, emphasizing the new mandate to simplify and ensure fairness in the refund process.

“Up until now, even though technically you’re already supposed to be able to get your money back for cancellation, you have to really fight for it,” Buttigieg said about the new rules. “A lot of times, what the airline would do is they’d say, ‘OK, well, here’s 5,000 miles,’ and that might sound great if you’re not aware that 5,000 miles is worth, say, $50 and you’re actually entitled to 400 bucks in a ticket refund,” Secretary Buttigieg explained.

The new rules will also eliminate the frustration of hidden and surprise fees by requiring airlines to disclose all costs upfront during the booking process. This transparency ensures that passengers can make informed decisions about their travel options, free from unexpected charges at the time of purchase or check-in.

“Today’s announcements will require airlines to both provide passengers better information about costs before ticket purchase, and promptly provide cash refunds to passengers when they are owed — not only saving passengers time and money, but also preventing headaches,” Buttigieg said.

Machinists Union District Legislative Director David Roderick expressed strong support for the new regulations, noting their broader impact on the industry and workforce. “These regulations are a win-win for everyone involved,” Roderick said. “Better treatment of passengers directly contributes to more profitable airlines, which translates to more good-paying union jobs. This is exactly the kind of legislation our members should champion.”

Since 2021, the Department of Transportation has implemented several sweeping new airline regulations aimed at protecting the flying public. Under Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued record fines, and returned more money to passengers than ever before.

Thanks to initiatives imposed by the Department of Transportation, all major U.S. airlines now guarantee free rebooking and meals, with most offering hotel accommodations for significant delays. These guarantees are all enforceable by the DOT. 

In 2023, the U.S. achieved a record-low flight cancellation rate of under 1.2% despite high travel volumes. DOT is also reviewing airline privacy practices and loyalty programs aimed at further expanding passenger rights and transparency.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

Donate Today - and THANK YOU

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Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

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New DOT Rules Promise to Make Air Travel Less Horrible

25 April 2024

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation, led by Secretary Pete Buttigieg, announced sweeping new regulations on Wednesday, requiring airlines to offer automatic cash refunds for significant delays and cancellations, marking a major shift towards enhanced passenger rights.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them – without headaches or haggling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers.”

Currently, airlines can offer passengers non-monetary refunds, such as free miles, for things like flight cancellations, delayed baggage, and poor Wi-Fi connections. The new rules will require airlines to refund the money passengers have paid for these services without requiring those passengers to ask for cash refunds.

“Airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops,” stated Secretary Buttigieg, emphasizing the new mandate to simplify and ensure fairness in the refund process.

“Up until now, even though technically you’re already supposed to be able to get your money back for cancellation, you have to really fight for it,” Buttigieg said about the new rules. “A lot of times, what the airline would do is they’d say, ‘OK, well, here’s 5,000 miles,’ and that might sound great if you’re not aware that 5,000 miles is worth, say, $50 and you’re actually entitled to 400 bucks in a ticket refund,” Secretary Buttigieg explained.

The new rules will also eliminate the frustration of hidden and surprise fees by requiring airlines to disclose all costs upfront during the booking process. This transparency ensures that passengers can make informed decisions about their travel options, free from unexpected charges at the time of purchase or check-in.

“Today’s announcements will require airlines to both provide passengers better information about costs before ticket purchase, and promptly provide cash refunds to passengers when they are owed — not only saving passengers time and money, but also preventing headaches,” Buttigieg said.

Machinists Union District Legislative Director David Roderick expressed strong support for the new regulations, noting their broader impact on the industry and workforce. “These regulations are a win-win for everyone involved,” Roderick said. “Better treatment of passengers directly contributes to more profitable airlines, which translates to more good-paying union jobs. This is exactly the kind of legislation our members should champion.”

Since 2021, the Department of Transportation has implemented several sweeping new airline regulations aimed at protecting the flying public. Under Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued record fines, and returned more money to passengers than ever before.

Thanks to initiatives imposed by the Department of Transportation, all major U.S. airlines now guarantee free rebooking and meals, with most offering hotel accommodations for significant delays. These guarantees are all enforceable by the DOT. 

In 2023, the U.S. achieved a record-low flight cancellation rate of under 1.2% despite high travel volumes. DOT is also reviewing airline privacy practices and loyalty programs aimed at further expanding passenger rights and transparency.

We have a quick favor to ask. If only 10% of union members sign up for regular donations to support important legislative and regulatory goals like this, we can put airline workers front and center on Capitol Hill. Becoming a recurring donor is more than a contribution—it’s a commitment to our cause and a testament to the power of collective action. Every donation helps, no matter the size.

Donate Today - and THANK YOU

Related

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Feb 28, 2024 | Front Page, MNPL, Recent News, Row 2

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

IAM141.org
28 February 2024

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is urging the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee to quickly confirm Julie Su as Secretary of Labor. Su, who has been serving as Acting Secretary since March 11, 2023, was previously approved by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor on July 13, 2021.

“Julie has a long record of commitment to protecting working Americans and ensuring that workplace laws and regulations are enforced accordingly,” reads the letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her work as the deputy DOL secretary, working collectively with former DOL Secretary Marty Walsh to ensure this very important federal agency promoted workforce development programs, helped promote good-paying jobs that lead to the Middle Class, and held bad-faith employers accountable.” 

In her role as Deputy Secretary, Su oversaw the Department of Labor’s operations, including managing the workforce, budget, and strategic priorities. Her tenure is noted for driving advancements within the department.

Before her federal service, Su was Secretary for the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), where she enforced workplace laws, addressed wage theft, and improved job safety standards. Her leadership saw enhanced enforcement of labor laws in California.

Su’s career has focused on worker and civil rights, recognized by a MacArthur Foundation grant. As California’s labor commissioner, she led efforts against wage theft and for fair labor practices, impacting labor law enforcement.

Su also worked at Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, where she combined litigation, policy reform, and community engagement to advance rights for marginalized communities.

Recognized for her legal expertise, Su has been listed among California’s “Top 75 Women Litigators” and as one of Harvard Law School’s noteworthy alumni. She has taught at UCLA and Northeastern Law Schools, sharing her knowledge in labor and civil rights.

A graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Su began her career with a Skadden Fellowship, focusing on social justice. Fluent in Mandarin and Spanish, her background enhances her advocacy for the workforce.

In the letter, Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant framed the Su nomination as part of a larger resurgence of labor momentum in the United States. “We are at a pivotal point in the labor movement,” said Bryant. “There is a growing favorable opinion of labor unions, and we must have an agency with leadership focused on protecting and safeguarding our nation’s workforce for today and our future. That leadership is Julie Su.”

The IAM’s endorsement highlights Su’s qualifications and dedication to worker welfare. The organization supports her swift confirmation, pointing to the positive impact her leadership would have on the labor market in the United States.

+ Read the letter here.

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Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

28 February 2024

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is urging the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee to quickly confirm Julie Su as Secretary of Labor. Su, who has been serving as Acting Secretary since March 11, 2023, was previously approved by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor on July 13, 2021.

“Julie has a long record of commitment to protecting working Americans and ensuring that workplace laws and regulations are enforced accordingly,” reads the letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her work as the deputy DOL secretary, working collectively with former DOL Secretary Marty Walsh to ensure this very important federal agency promoted workforce development programs, helped promote good-paying jobs that lead to the Middle Class, and held bad-faith employers accountable.” 

In her role as Deputy Secretary, Su oversaw the Department of Labor’s operations, including managing the workforce, budget, and strategic priorities. Her tenure is noted for driving advancements within the department.

Before her federal service, Su was Secretary for the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), where she enforced workplace laws, addressed wage theft, and improved job safety standards. Her leadership saw enhanced enforcement of labor laws in California.

Su’s career has focused on worker and civil rights, recognized by a MacArthur Foundation grant. As California’s labor commissioner, she led efforts against wage theft and for fair labor practices, impacting labor law enforcement.

Su also worked at Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, where she combined litigation, policy reform, and community engagement to advance rights for marginalized communities.

Recognized for her legal expertise, Su has been listed among California’s “Top 75 Women Litigators” and as one of Harvard Law School’s noteworthy alumni. She has taught at UCLA and Northeastern Law Schools, sharing her knowledge in labor and civil rights.

A graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Su began her career with a Skadden Fellowship, focusing on social justice. Fluent in Mandarin and Spanish, her background enhances her advocacy for the workforce.

In the letter, Machinists Union International President Bryan Bryant framed the Su nomination as part of a larger resurgence of labor momentum in the United States. “We are at a pivotal point in the labor movement,” said Bryant. “There is a growing favorable opinion of labor unions, and we must have an agency with leadership focused on protecting and safeguarding our nation’s workforce for today and our future. That leadership is Julie Su.”

The IAM’s endorsement highlights Su’s qualifications and dedication to worker welfare. The organization supports her swift confirmation, pointing to the positive impact her leadership would have on the labor market in the United States.

+ Read the letter here.

Related

Machinists Union Stands in Solidarity with Flight Attendants in Nationwide Day of Action

Machinists Union Stands in Solidarity with Flight Attendants in Nationwide Day of Action

Feb 14, 2024 | Featured News, Front Page, MNPL, Recent News, Row 2

Machinists Union Stands in Solidarity with Flight Attendants in Nationwide Day of Action

Pictured: Assistant General Chairs Erik Stenberg (left) and Mike Cyscon.

Machinists Union Stands in Solidarity with Flight Attendants in Nationwide Day of Action

IAM141.org
14 February 2024

In a display of solidarity, members of the Machinists Union joined flight attendants in nationwide rallies held at over 30 major airports across the United States on Tuesday. The collective action, organized as part of the Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action, aimed to bring attention to the ongoing labor negotiations affecting over two-thirds of flight attendants at several major airlines.

Flight attendants from United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Air Wisconsin, American Airlines, Omni, and Frontier, represented by three different labor unions, took to the picket lines in cities including New York City, Orlando, Miami, San Francisco, Charlotte, Washington DC, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and more.

The protests underscored the pressing issues at hand as flight attendants push for fair and just contracts amidst negotiations with their respective airlines. In total, the unions participating in the day of action represent more than 100,000 flight attendants at all major airlines in the United States.

“Our time is now!” declared AFA Alaska President Jeffrey Peterson. “Alaska Flight Attendants today backed up our fight for an industry-leading contract with a 99.48% strike vote. And we’re out on the picket line demonstrating that we’re ready to do whatever it takes to get the contract we deserve. There’s no excuse: Alaska management has the money to buy another airline, they certainly have the money to invest in Flight Attendants. We have a simple message for management: Pay us, or CHAOS!”

Flight attendants at Alaska Airlines, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike authorization should management fail to agree to significant improvements. The last time Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants went on strike was in 1993, when Flight Attendants took over the schedule using AFA’s trademarked strike strategy, Creating Havoc Around Our System™ or CHAOS™.

“Alaska Flight Attendants are fired up and ready to go,” emphasized AFA International President Sara Nelson. “You can’t fly without Flight Attendants. If Alaska management doesn’t remember what happens when you disrespect Flight Attendants, we are ready to show them. It’s past time for a fair deal.”

“We are not a line item on a balance sheet,” stated Melinda Beal, president of the AFA Cleveland chapter, as reported by Axios. She highlighted the challenges faced by flight attendants, including longer hours with little rest between shifts, eroding wages due to inflation, and airlines reaping billions in profits. Beal emphasized the demand for raises and the challenge to the pay structure.

The demonstrations are not strikes, though that’s the next step. The industry norm is that attendants don’t get paid until the plane doors close. Union members are calling for full pay for their work during boarding or deplaning and for time on the ground between back-to-back flights. In 2022, Delta Air Lines became the first U.S. airline to pay flight attendants during boarding, but at only half their standard rate.

 

 

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Machinists Union Stands in Solidarity with Flight Attendants in Nationwide Day of Action

February 14 2024

Pictured: Assistant General Chairs Erik Stenberg (left) and Mike Cyscon.

In a display of solidarity, members of the Machinists Union joined flight attendants in nationwide rallies held at over 30 major airports across the United States on Tuesday. The collective action, organized as part of the Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action, aimed to bring attention to the ongoing labor negotiations affecting over two-thirds of flight attendants at several major airlines.

Flight attendants from United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Air Wisconsin, American Airlines, Omni, and Frontier, represented by three different labor unions, took to the picket lines in cities including New York City, Orlando, Miami, San Francisco, Charlotte, Washington DC, Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and more.

The protests underscored the pressing issues at hand as flight attendants push for fair and just contracts amidst negotiations with their respective airlines. In total, the unions participating in the day of action represent more than 100,000 flight attendants at all major airlines in the United States.

“Our time is now!” declared AFA Alaska President Jeffrey Peterson. “Alaska Flight Attendants today backed up our fight for an industry-leading contract with a 99.48% strike vote. And we’re out on the picket line demonstrating that we’re ready to do whatever it takes to get the contract we deserve. There’s no excuse: Alaska management has the money to buy another airline, they certainly have the money to invest in Flight Attendants. We have a simple message for management: Pay us, or CHAOS!”

Flight attendants at Alaska Airlines, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike authorization should management fail to agree to significant improvements. The last time Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants went on strike was in 1993, when Flight Attendants took over the schedule using AFA’s trademarked strike strategy, Creating Havoc Around Our System™ or CHAOS™.

“Alaska Flight Attendants are fired up and ready to go,” emphasized AFA International President Sara Nelson. “You can’t fly without Flight Attendants. If Alaska management doesn’t remember what happens when you disrespect Flight Attendants, we are ready to show them. It’s past time for a fair deal.”

“We are not a line item on a balance sheet,” stated Melinda Beal, president of the AFA Cleveland chapter, as reported by Axios. She highlighted the challenges faced by flight attendants, including longer hours with little rest between shifts, eroding wages due to inflation, and airlines reaping billions in profits. Beal emphasized the demand for raises and the challenge to the pay structure.

The demonstrations are not strikes, though that’s the next step. The industry norm is that attendants don’t get paid until the plane doors close. Union members are calling for full pay for their work during boarding or deplaning and for time on the ground between back-to-back flights. In 2022, Delta Air Lines became the first U.S. airline to pay flight attendants during boarding, but at only half their standard rate.

Related

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

Feb 8, 2024 | Community Service, EAP, Featured News, Front Page, Helping Hands, Recent News, Row 2

February Helping Hands: Financial Health

EAP Peers:
 
     February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources – the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any consumer financial issue. There are links throughout the two pages that can connect people with help for most any financial issue. The electronic version allows folks to connect with whatever resource they feel will help their concern. Please make the electronic version available to your co-workers as you can
 
     Thank you for being there for others – this is important work and not many people are as dedicated to others as you have been – I appreciate everything you are doing!
 
Bryan,

Bryan Hutchinson, M.S.

Bryan Hutchinson, M.S.
EAP Director
bhutchinson@iam141.org
Cell: 303-229-5117

IAM141 EAP Page
Download EAP Newsletter (PDF)
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Recent Articles

$8,000 in Scholarships are Now Available!

$8,000 in Scholarships are Now Available!

Feb 6, 2024 | Community Service, Education, Featured News, Front Page, Other News, Recent News, Row 2

$8,000 in Scholarships are Now Available!

$8,000 in Scholarships are Now Available!

IAM141.org
6 February 2024

District Lodge 141 is excited to announce the commencement of its 2024 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest!

The essay competition is designed to encourage a better understanding and appreciation of the role of unions in America and foster a sense of community among our members and their families. By reflecting on the history and principles of unions, participants have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this important institution and its impact on society. Through their personal experiences and reflections, they can inspire others to recognize the value of collective action and the power of working together towards a common goal. 

This year’s theme asks participants to contemplate “Reviving the American Dream: What Can I Do to Help My Generation Overcome Despair and Build a Better Future?” This competition is open to the children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members with one year or more of good standing in District Lodge 141 of the Machinists Union as of June 1, 2023. This includes graduating high school seniors and those who are currently enrolled full-time in college or trade school. The Grand Prize winner will receive a $2,000 award, and six additional winners will each receive a check for $1,000. 

Participants are asked to email their entries to dan@bleicomm.com by midnight on July 15, 2024.

CLICK HERE for the official rules and entry form.

 

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$8,000 in Scholarships are Now Available!

6 February 2024

District Lodge 141 is excited to announce the commencement of its 2024 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest!

The essay competition is designed to encourage a better understanding and appreciation of the role of unions in America and foster a sense of community among our members and their families. By reflecting on the history and principles of unions, participants have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this important institution and its impact on society. Through their personal experiences and reflections, they can inspire others to recognize the value of collective action and the power of working together towards a common goal. 

This year’s theme asks participants to contemplate “Reviving the American Dream: What Can I Do to Help My Generation Overcome Despair and Build a Better Future?” This competition is open to the children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members with one year or more of good standing in District Lodge 141 of the Machinists Union as of June 1, 2023. This includes graduating high school seniors and those who are currently enrolled full-time in college or trade school. The Grand Prize winner will receive a $2,000 award, and six additional winners will each receive a check for $1,000. 

Participants are asked to email their entries to dan@bleicomm.com by midnight on July 15, 2024.

CLICK HERE for the official rules and entry form.

 

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