IAM Challenges AFA Intimidation Tactics
March 3, 2011
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In a letter to Association of Flight Attendants-Communications Workers of America (AFA-CWA) President Veda Shook, IAM Transportation General Vice President Robert Roach, Jr. calls for an immediate halt to harassment and intimidation of AFA-CWA members who express support for the IAM.
“The IAM has received troubling reports that Flight Attendants, including AFA-CWA representatives, are providing United Airlines management with the names of fellow Flight Attendants – your dues-paying members – who support the IAM, alleging they are in violation of minor company policies,” said Roach. “We have also received reports from United Flight Attendants that individuals, some of whom are officers in your organization, are using fear and intimidation to suppress any pro-IAM discussions.”
The IAM represents 9,300 Flight Attendants at Continental Airlines, while AFA-CWA represents Flight Attendants at United Airlines. The National Mediation Board (NMB) will conduct a representation election to determine who will represent the combined group in the wake of the merger of United, Continental and Continental Micronesia.
“As this campaign proceeds, I expect spirited debate and I will of course have no objection to members expressing strongly held opinions and positions about both our organizations,” said Roach. “I will not, however, sanction or allow personal attacks, nor will I allow any Flight Attendant to be penalized for expressing his or her personal preference.”
