Key Takeaways
- Sara Nelson of the Association of Flight Attendants advocates for a general strike against federal policies.
- Union solidarity is portrayed as a crucial force for workers to gain leverage and secure "wins."
- Trump administration actions against federal workers' union contracts are viewed as a historic attack on labor.
- Federal actions, including deportations, are increasingly impacting union members across diverse sectors.
- Past labor struggles, such as the 1914 Ludlow Massacre, offer lessons in persistent fighting for worker rights.
Deep Dive
- Sara Nelson, President of the Association of Flight Attendants, states many flight attendants do not earn a living wage.
- A recent survey revealed a significant number of flight attendants are enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Nelson discussed the possibility of a general strike against Trump administration policies in 2017 and remains prepared for such action.
- Sara Nelson began her career as a flight attendant, attracted by a strong union contract offering good pay, healthcare for women, flexibility, and a pension at age 50.
- She became involved in the union early on after a company error with her paycheck and witnessed veteran flight attendants successfully use their contract knowledge to defend work schedules.
- A veteran flight attendant advised her that management held them in contempt, emphasizing that solidarity was their only source of power and accomplishment.
- Sara Nelson became a national figure during the January 2019 federal government shutdown, which left TSA agents and air traffic controllers working without pay.
- Nelson called for a general strike in response, highlighting the stress on essential transportation security officers and air traffic controllers.
- The shutdown of LaGuardia Airport, caused by ten air traffic controllers not reporting to work, demonstrated significant worker power.
- The shutdown concluded rapidly as workers took control, showcasing their ability to influence national policy.
- Guest Sara Nelson emphasizes the need to overcome fear and openly discuss the power of striking.
- The discussion references Mary Harris, known as Mother Jones, and the 1914 Ludlow Massacre, where striking miners were violently suppressed.
- Mother Jones encouraged continuous fighting, even after defeats, as crucial for building power and learning from the struggle.
- A parallel is drawn to South Korea, where unions conducted a general strike during martial law, leading to the successful ousting of a dictator.
- Union members are increasingly affected by federal actions, specifically the Trump administration's deportation policies.
- Kilmar Obrego-Garcia, a member of the building trades, was deported to El Salvador despite a Supreme Court ruling for his return.
- Multiple unions, including building trades and graduate students, issued a joint statement, signaling new cross-class and cross-union solidarity.
- This collaboration aims to protect members and improve working conditions amid federal policy impacts.
- Avello, a budget airline contracted for deportation flights, faces opposition from its flight attendants.
- 67% of Avello's flight attendants, represented by the AFA, have stated they will not work deportation flights, with the union organizing further protests.
- Sara Nelson outlines potential demands for a general strike, including reinstating collective bargaining agreements.
- Other demands include halting deportations and enacting an economic bill of rights covering housing, healthcare, and education.