return to main email pageReceived: Fri, 14 Oct 2005 00:01:04 -0500
As an IAM member I get asked, “Why fight someone else’s fight?” My answer is not as clear as I first thought. When I first made my decision I had been backed in to the corners at NWA that seem to never end. I was forced to decide to continue working, or to take someone else’s job. I know I cannot clean an a/c with cleaners out on the line. I also know that I cannot push back a plane with mechanics out on the line. The days of the pushback for mechanics may be over, but I cannot see doing it until the mechanics are back where they belong. As simple as that answer seems, I found a lot more reasons for joining the fight. You see this is not about the mechanics and cleaners standing up for themselves or other union members at NWA supporting them. This cause goes much further.
NWA is not the only company watching what we do. The aviation industry is not the only industry affected. Every company and industry that is unionized or has the potential to be unionized is watching our battle (just as Delphi for one). This is about the labor movement. If we look at this as another mans fight, we go back to the pre labor movement era. This is every Americans fight. All that we want is good jobs, a good paycheck, health care for our families, and job security.
A general consensus when I speak to people is that they are just looking out for their families. To them I have this to say. Many of us have families and bills to pay. But at the same time, looking out for yourself and tomorrow will only get you so far. There will be a tomorrow, there will be a roof over your head, and there will be food on your table, tomorrow. Some day your tomorrows will run out. The execs that run our company are fighting tooth and nail to make sure that the tomorrows you know will not see your kids through college, they will not pay your bills, and they will not see you through to retirement. These execs are dictating what our lives are going to be, and your standing aside to let that happen.
When you go home at night and look into the innocent eyes of your children how are you going to tell them everything is ok? When they go out into the job market you will have made sure that there is nothing. If they are lucky enough to find a job that hasn’t been outsourced you will be proud of their minimum wages, the fact that they have no benefits will make you smile, and that there is no job security will bring a tear of joy to your eye.
This company is not based on the execs that stand before the judges saying this company is bankrupt, we have nothing, but please give us our bonuses. We will not see Steenland picking up a wrench to fix a plane, putting on a headset and selling tickets, or standing at the ticket counter servicing passengers, and God help us all if you ever see him lifting a suitcase. We the employees are what made NWA run, we are what built this company. It is a sad company because we let some suits come in and takeover. It is not time to hail the great Steenland, it is the time to fight.
Correct me if I have stated anything wrong here. Until I see a united front out there on the picket line, I will know how you feel and how you value America. I will know just how well you intend to look out for yourself and your family.
Received: Tue, 11 Oct 2005 06:51:14 EDT
On picket duty at DTW two guys (paying business passengers) walk up to me and each give me a check for $100 made out to AMFA. saying that they are both labor friendly, and are very sorry about crossing the picket line, but would loose $5000 each if they didn't go on the flight.
Received: Fri, 7 Oct 2005 17:30:21 -0700
I'm a retired mech with nwa you should get that 13yr girl and plaster her all over the news stations and have her read that letter at union rallies not just amfa's but everyone else's. What a smart person she is, maybe she should run nwa. Keep the faith stay strong. Me and my wife pray for you guys every night. Good-luck
Received: Fri, 7 Oct 2005 14:44:44 -0500
I got in a little argument with someone in my family who couldn't believe I said a union person never crosses a picket line, "you wouldn't cross the picket line for your family?" they said............I sat and thought about how years ago people were treated like dirt and how much the unions had done for this country and ALL the people that enjoy the nice things today!!! people died for the good things we take for granted, they suffered a hell of lot more than anyone of us is actually suffering now, so my answer was I would never let my family down, there are other jobs and ways to make it through this strike but principles and each persons integrity is at stake here and I for one will not give up on my union family either. nwa's best maintenance days are long gone, it will NEVER be any better than it was in the past so never returning may be a blessing for us all............good luck to everyone and stay strong.......
Received: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 09:03:17 -0500
AMFA 33,
Please stay strong, I know the strike is taking it's toll on families across AMFA and any family with an AMFA Union worker at
NWA. My brother in-law is a 26 year employee at MSP and a dedicated union brother. The effects of NWA and it's tactics are
barbaric to say in the least. As unions, we need to stand strong, the union busters are rampant, not only in private industry but also in the public sector as well. We feel your pain brothers & sisters, it is affecting us all and the world is watching! Be patient and persistent as you have been for the last 2 months. You will prevail, it is going to take time. Our safety in the air depends on excellent union brothers and sisters, no doubt about it!
Hold the line and stand strong one and all!
In brotherhood,
Robert C. Olson
President IAFF Local 3655
Received: Mon, 3 Oct 2005 19:18:48 +0000
While on the picket line at the MSP terminal last Saturday, we were approached by a pilot from another airline. He formerly worked at Eastern, and remarked that going through this strike was "one hell of a way to have to live." He then opened his wallet, pulled out some $20s and said that at the very least, he wanted to buy us lunch. We were on strike duty and not about to leave our posts, but shook his hand, thanked him and turned the money over to the strike center.
Not long after, a flight attendant came over with a bag of coffee and cups, as well as a newspaper. Support comes in all forms.
Yes, this does humble a person...but it also validates the fight.
Received: Fri, 23 Sep 2005 00:33:59 -0500
Last night I was riding my motorcycle home, after a small one day cash job. When the next down poor of rain started, I parked under a bridge next to a bar. I went in to the bar to let the storm pass. After some light talking to a couple of locals about motorcycling, the conversation changed to strong emotion when the third generation pipe fitter was informed I am a striking NWA mechanic. He stretched out his hand and with a very firm grip, told me how we at AMFA were doing the very right thing and how AMFA is showing great strength of character. From this point on we both let the thunder of our own roll on. A third gentleman has also been a part of this all, getting an ear full. having never been in a union but definitely seeing the wrong doings of NWA's management. The next thing that happened is the part that can humble a man. Both men pulled out there wallets an handed me a donation, saying this is fight they want to be part of ! I'll be stopping by strike head quarters to with there help for the fight !!!!!!
Received: Thu, 22 Sep 2005 10:40:01 -0500
Just a note to let you know you are in our good wishes and thoughts as you fight your battle. My husband is a teacher in the Crosby-Ironton School District and last Feb-April we experienced an eight-week strike. We survived. It was tough. But the admiration I have for each and every one of the striking teachers is immeasurable.
The job you do is SO important. Your skill and training is the backbone of the airline industry. You are right to fight this battle. Keep the faith. Stay strong. Solidarity FOREVER!!!
Our School's teachers Union, Local 1325, will be sending a check of monetary support soon.
Received: Thu, 22 Sep 2005 09:40:01 EDT
Former IAM leader ( Mike Hurley ) has sold his soul to the Corporate America PR sleaze machine. Personally embarrassing the once great and proud IAM. Who has also come to the aid of Corporate America. Remember, any excuse will due for the IAM, as long as they don't have to stand up and fight for their members rights.
Received: Tue, 20 Sep 2005 20:48:57 -0500
Good luck folks, and I hope in the end you can reclaim at least a few of the jobs. I will never fly NWA until Union craft people are maintaining the aircraft. It won't take too much longer and sadly it will take a crash for NWA to get there heads out of the sand. The mechanics obviously were doing an excellent job prior to this but it will eventually show up in an FAA file somewhere or sadly when a victims family starts poking around with a lawyer.
Received: Thu, 15 Sep 2005 09:10:22 -0500
Mr. Steenland denies that he is trying to bust the AMFA union. If this is true why would he make the comment in the media last night that NO WAY would AMFA be involved in the bankruptcy hearing. I would think if he really cared about the safety of this Airline he would be making the opposite statement. I will not be flying this airline until there is a settlement with AMFA.
Received: Wed, 14 Sep 2005 10:16:41 -0500
On behalf of myself and my family I would like to thank the creator and contributors of our AMFA web page. Throughout this ongoing strike
it has been a source of unbiased news, good and bad, from across the nation.
The "Emails about the strike" link has been an emotional boost; the UAL pilot ( 8/29) made our hearts swell. The "Joesentme.com"
link has brought some smiles.
We need to remind ourselves that the pride, integrity and professionalism of a blue collar union worker plants a seed in families, neighbors and even strangers that see, and even though may not agree with, our struggle as not for our betterment, but that of all middle class workers.
This brotherhood is reaffirmed by those wonderful people that have already been laid off and yet still walk the line with us, or work at their new jobs then drop by for 4 hours. You have not gone unnoticed. Thanks to all for your steadfastness!
Carleton College
Received: Wed, 14 Sep 2005 09:10:31 -0500
Thanks for your insights. It will definitely be an interesting time. As a webmaster myself, I sure appreciate the work you have done with keeping all of us informed. Your pages have been incredibly helpful during this time when accurate information is so crucial to those of us whose livelihoods are on the line. I agree that family support is crucial. My feeling is that we are now fighting for principals, not jobs. We're pretty sure we lost that a long time ago. As a spouse, it has become almost unbearable to see my husband treated like "dirt". His feelings, skills, dedication and commitment are worth so much more. My heartfelt support are with you all as the company, or now probably a judge, makes decisions about your futures and the futures of your families. I'm proud to be the wife of an aircraft mechanic.
Received: Tue, 13 Sep 2005 21:09:55 -0700
Hello everyone ! What a proud day to be a Unionist !
I was told about UAW when I checked in at the SEA picket line. Overwhelming ! I'm so proud to be "walking " with these men and women. I was asked the other day to remove a red solidarity ribbon prior to my NRT flt. Told to pick my battle--so I did. It was 9-11-05 I wore my red ribbon proudly for those who went before protecting the A/C and the souls on board and for those of us who value safety above all else. Thanks for taking the stand. You are not alone , even though a " full walk out " did not occur.
Stay Strong !!
SEA/FA
Received: Tue, 13 Sep 2005 14:31:00 -0500
Just a note of encouragement for the Union members during the Strike. I feel rather helpless to their plight. I get angry and frustrated at NWA's lack of ethics. I applaud and really respect the union stand. It should demonstrate and remind our 'me' society of how people used to stand up for one another. People all over are complaining that their employers are taking advantage of them, yet they think that Unions are outdated. They forget what and why Unions were formed - to protect YOU!
Hang in there!!
Received: Mon, 12 Sep 2005 22:18:17 -0500
I work for a union (the Pennsylvania affiliate of NEA) and am interested in strike support activities in the Harrisburg, PA area. Obviously, the entire labor movement should be doing everything possible to support a win for your union against Northwest. We ALL have a lot at stake here - public or private sector - with the permanent replacement worker issue. I was in Louisville, KY last week and one newspaper article there started by saying something like "all employers dream of getting rid of a pesky union - now Northwest is on the verge of living that dream".
In Solidarity
Harrisburg, PA
Received: Mon, 12 Sep 2005 22:10:11 -0500
We support your strike and will not fly Northwest, even though flying another airline will cost us more money. We favor the union and all working people.
Richmond, VA 23238-4109
Received: Mon, 5 Sep 2005 21:02:12 -0500
Hang tough everyone,
I just had a lengthy and quite candid conversation with a line hangar manager who lives in my neighborhood. Some items that came out are: The scabs are not very happy and some more are expected to be quitting soon. They thought we'd be tripping over the picket line by now to get back to work and train them. The southern boys don't want to hang around for the MSP winter. They already have other jobs lined up down south. The vendor that hired them lied to them about their pay rate ($34/hr w/overtime) and then charged them $150 for their uniforms. Paperwork is a real mess and the FAA has been all over the poor scabs. Most of the scabs have no line experience and most jobs are taking too long to complete. The poor managers are tired of 12 hours shifts, 6 days a week and they'd be happy to have this thing over. Unlicensed managers are working the "move crew" because they can't sign the logbooks. There were other things that I can't remember right now. Bottom line: Stay united and force Mr Roberts and Mr Bauer to fall on their swords...See ya on the picket line.....
Received: Mon, 5 Sep 2005 20:24:56 -0500
I have a pre-paid non-refundable ticket, bought before the strike, for Sept 28, 2005 from SMF to MDW on NWA. I will not be using it and have purchased a seat on another airline for that time. Sadly, I can't get my money back and so my stand is a moral one, not one that will financially hurt NWA while they refuse to negotiate in good faith with your members. Sadly, with the airline hiring scab labor, I see no end to the strike before my planned travel date.
My husband is a CTA (National Education Association) member, and the part-time faculty association representative. In other words he is a local officer and we are a union family. My husband also is an A&P, with an IA. We both hold commercial ASEL and commercial glider ratings, too. We understand both the safety and the labor issues and with this understanding we support you. We support your striking members 100%. I can assure you that I will never buy another ticket and will turn in my WorldPerks membership if NWA does not reach a contract with their loyal AMFA employees. I will be writing NWA to let them know how I feel.
My best wishes. If I were near an AMFA picket line I would give you a horn honk and a thumbs up. If I actually see an AMFA picket line while arriving or departing via another airline you can be sure that I will stop and give your striking members my warmest regards. You can be assured that I will not cross your picket line to fly on NWA. My heart is with your striking members.
Grass Valley, CA
Received: Mon, 5 Sep 2005 20:11:17 -0500
Hello,
Just wanted to pass some info onto you. I am a Flight Attendant for NWA. (I am ashamed to admit that these days) I am well aware that the reporting of late flights/delays and cancellations are being hidden or made out to be some reason other than the 'new people' not knowing what they are doing.
FLT 742 MSP-DTW scheduled departure 6:50am was delayed due to 'new people' not filling out/and or signing off on the maintenance logbook correctly and had to be completed before it could go. But this maintenance logbook error was originally made in PHX (which is where the a/c came in from. I don't know what the maintenance was)
It was scheduled out on time until this was discovered. Then the agents said they were going to hold for a connecting flight from ANC. Agents were complaining say....'First they don't want us to hold for them, then they say, they want us to hold for them, wish they'd make up their minds'. So it's my guess that NWA didn't want it to show as a 'maintenance' problem.
Also when we arrived; on the same plane; this morning there were several 'new people cleaners' scrambling to clean the A/C. They were panicked, saying they didn't know it was going out and that it needed to be cleaned.
Just thought you may not be aware of this flight and wanted to make sure that you were. I have never seen so much dang chaos !
I support you ALL and have walked the picket line in DTW with you in support along w/my Children & Husband who also support you. We wear the 'Local 5 DTW' T-shirts with pride. We will continue to support you til' the end.
Stay united and stay strong!
Received: Mon, 5 Sep 2005 20:00:39 -0500
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Just wanted to say thank you for sticking up for what is right and drawing a line in the sand. I'll remember you all in my prayers.
Hang in there.
In solidarity,
IBEW Local #38
Cleveland, Ohio
Received: Mon, 5 Sep 2005 09:40:16 EDT
Hi folks,
I want to pass along a couple of interesting stories garnished from our picketing of the Scaberfield Suites hotel in Waltham over the weekend. First off, I'd like to say how impressive it was to see so many bodies at this location on Friday morning. There was nothing sweeter than to see the first van that arrived with the scab workers to be so welcomed as they pulled into their supposed safe harbor. To see the scabs cowering down on the back seat as they went through our legal picket line is a testament to the real strength of these scab bastards. What type of person wanting to expose themselves to this humiliation on a daily basis is beyond my understanding. This was followed by the second van carrying more of the scabs to turn a quick 180 and hightail it out of the area after they saw the picketers standing at the top of the hill. Another testament to their strength! Many thanks to all who went out of their way to make this a successful event, particularly the New Hampshire boys that traveled quite a way and maintained their vigilance long after the big crowd of picketers was gone. We will certainly follow this event with many random pickets as long as the scab bastards are holed up in our back yard.
The stories I want to pass along were supplied by none other than Waltham's finest. On Saturday morning, Mike *** and I showed up for this same duty. At the appointed time, we saw the first van coming up the hill towards us attempting to enter the driveway to the hotel. I have to say I give Mike an 'A' for courage for he attempted to stand directly in front of the van on his own. This van contained 6 of the scab bastards with no yellow security shirts as far as I could notice. Mike came perilously close to being struck by this van, which eventually spun past him. Not one minute following this event and as much verbal abuse we two could muster, three Waltham police arrived on the scene in their own vehicles, followed by a fourth shortly thereafter. We were quite surprised by this display by the police. After awhile two of the officers left the area, leaving the other two to watch over us. We soon came to find out from these officers that NWA has hired a two officer/per shift around the clock detail to protect the scabs living in this hotel! They are paying $33 an hour for each officer. The rate balloons to $43 an hour when we strikers are present! What kind of insanity is this? Obviously, the company is willing to pay any amount to bust our resolve and our union, by paying others significantly more than what they offered us in their ridiculous proposals. Don't make the mistake of caving in and joining these low lifes in the hotel. It won't be worth it!
Another quick story told to us. - The police were called to one of the striker's rooms this past week by hotel security. Upon arrival, the police found a severely intoxicated scab acting arrogantly and out of control. After convincing him he would shortly be arrested if he didn't calm down, they actually got him into his bed and left him to oblivion. About an hour later, this same scab accosted the police again, telling them that he had been assaulted by two people in his room. The officer looked at him and said, " that was us putting you to bed you stupid ass!". What brilliance the company is using to replace us.
Another scab approached the officers one morning and told them that his windshield was smashed." When did it happen" he was asked? "Last night in this parking lot", the officer was told, suggesting that the strikers were responsible. The officer proceeded to tell this individual that he was parked just a few spots away from the vehicle in question throughout the night and to come up with a better story for the broken windshield. More brilliance! And these people are doing our work? A little scary, don't you think?
We are now into week three of the strike. For those of you on this email list who have yet to join the ranks of your fellow employees on the picket line, I would encourage you to do so as soon as possible. I realize that work is a priority for some, including myself, but so is the obligation to the solidarity that got us an industry leading contract in the past. It does matter if you walk the line! Don't think it is a futile effort. Do yourself and your fellow employees the honor of signing up for picket duty! Some of these folks have been picketing almost daily for you and themselves. How about returning the favor?
Stay Strong!
Received: Sun, 04 Sep 2005 23:55:28 -0700
Here's another note from a former UAL mechanic who was happy to picket at SFO this fine Sunday afternoon. Some of us there today walked the line for the Eastern strike in different cities, and we talked about how the reaction from other airport workers and passengers is different now. Back then we'd get a few passengers every shift who screamed "Go get a job!" or "You people make too much already!" But 15 years of wage cuts, lost medical care and pensions is changing how people look at themselves and the world. Today a crew of Delta flight attendants gave us a thumbs up and said, "Good for you, you guys!" An off-duty NWA pilot stopped by to offer her personal support. Passengers took leaflets, asked about the strike, talked about union fights in the cities they come from. A Chinese tourist even translated a picket sign for us into Chinese. Looking forward to the Labor Day rally.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:38:32 -0500
I hold my head in shame for what an unbelievably sad organization (IAM) we belong to. For us to not join together in the struggle we all face as an industry will surely be the end of all of us (including the IAM). How short sighted they are to continue this me only, mindless, senseless segregation and animosity is simply self defeating and hurts every member of EVERY UNION in this country. With this mentality I find absolutely no purpose to stay on course and back anything our union leadership has recommended.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:38:56 -0500
Dear AMFA Members,
I was a flight attendant at US Airways until I was furloughed Jan 2002. I'd like to thank you for doing what all the other airline unions have failed to do: stand up to airline management. Our industry is more heavily unionized than almost any other, maybe more so than any. We should be dictating terms, not begging or worse taking concessions for management's errors. I am embarrassed for my union for not fighting back and for the other unions at Northwest for not respecting your picket lines. I wish you all the best. If I were in a union at NWA, I'd be fighting like mad to get the others to stay out with you. Whatever happened to solidarity?
Wishing you a speedy victory,
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:38:02 -0500
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I am a currently laid off UAW member here in unemployment strifed Michigan. I, if not my local, (1313), support the efforts for fairness and job
security that your members are striking for. I noticed an interesting occurrence on my local/national news broadcast this morning. During a story segment on the 2 sides of the strike on ABC's good morning Saturday, my Closed Caption hearing impaired feature was following
the story word for word until it came time for the AMFA's spokesperson to speak. He was cautioning travelers that he could not guarantee the quality of the work that would be performed by scabs during the strike, and the Closed Caption LOCKED UP!! But ONLY DURING HIS COMMENTS. All of the OTHER info, including how much the airline might lose, statements to the effect that "the union rejected the airlines offer", and other information dear to the airline, was scrolled in the CC without pause or problem.
This is not the first time that I have seen this hearing impaired feature "slip" during news reports and features expressed from the union's side.
Does George Bush run that too?? My faith and prayers are with your members.
In Solidarity,
Local 1313 UAW
Plymouth MI.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:37:21 -0500
I support the striking workers of the AMFA.
It is unfortunate that other labor unions especially workers within the company can not show solidarity with their brothers and sisters. The only way for workers to be effective is through solidarity, instead of fear of their employers.
We are losing the battle and the fight because of this. As UAL decision showed, they can get away with anything. Management can make bad decisions and get rewarded with bonus's and the workers get shafted.
North Carolina
formerly with UFCWU
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:33:52 -0500
I know most companies not just airlines have been down sizing, wage reduction, health benefit increases etc. I believe everyone is affected in some way. The one thing I never hear is what salary reduction and perks have the CEO's, Vice Presidents, Executive position take. It seems to me that all the facets of company's or all levels of company employee's are expected to have the wages cut why are they not starting with themselves. I know if employee's saw the top line making these changes I bet that lower levels would be less resistance. Didn't anyone learn anything from World Com, Eron. Why would a company pay CEO a enormous salary when the company is struggle. This reminds me of an old saying that has been around forever. Always treat other people the way you would like to be treated. or Don't do as I do just do as I say. I wonder which saying creates a successful company? There is such a loss of Integrity in the world today.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 09:57:41 -0500
And also hope you'll share the following story about an earlier strike, written by a flight attendant, with your members.
http://www.soapblox.net/myleftwing/showDiary.do?diaryId=1633
In solidarity,
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 10:08:21 -0500
Good on you guys. It is good union people like you who hold the line against companies that seek to oppress you with their pay cuts. The pilots buckled under; I personally know one who is so afraid to put his job on the line that he will take anything the company dishes out. I thank God for you and I pray for the passengers who lives now depend on the scab labor that Northwest is using. Keep the faith. I'll walk the line with you in spirit. A retired Teamster.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 09:42:39 -0500
I'm way out in the Los Angles area, where "union" is synonymous with "socialist"... But some of us understand the value of collective bargaining (and buying products and services from our fellow countrymen), and support your members in this difficult time.
I rarely fly, so I can't vote with my dollars in that respect. But I do vote in elections, and you can be sure that anyone who doesn't support the rights of the men and women who actually WORK to make this country run never get my vote.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 09:29:49 -0500
Our family fully supports the mechanics and their families striking against further wage and benefit cuts. We will boycott NWA until the labor issues are resolved fairly and we will urge all of our friends to do likewise.
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 09:05:29 -0500
Hooray for Northwest's brave mechanics!!! Too bad United's mechanics didn't have the guts nor leadership to stand up against their corrupt
corporation a couple of months ago. The race to the bottom has been thrown a roadblock. Hopefully this strike will spread and be supported
by other union members, inside and outside the airline industry. Let's show the country and world that, yes, we do give a damn about
middle-class workers!
Received: Sun, 4 Sep 2005 08:57:44 -0500
Hello fellow union members.
My family and I are UAW members retired. we are behind you all the way and we talk to our friends to ask them not to fly, with northwest till the strike is over.
fraternally
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 22:08:43 -0500
Please take a Minute to Support American Jobs
Hello Friends,
1. Are you tired of big companies sending good American jobs overseas?
2. Do you know of someone whose job was eliminated and sent overseas?
3. Do you wonder where your children and grandchildren will find good jobs in the future?
If you answered yes to any one of these questions, please take 2 minutes to support the Northwest mechanics strike.
Click the web link below and sign up to file a complaint. Write as little or as much as you want in the comment section. Just writing "I support the Northwest mechanics" is enough to let Northwest know you are watching. Please forward this email to as many people you can!!
https://www.nwa.com/talk/ttu.html
Concerned Citizen
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 23:15:28 -0500
As a retired ual ramp I want to congratulate you on striking NWA. It's about time someone stood up to corporate America, I just feel bad the other unions didn't have the guts to honor your picket lines the time is now to fight back , good luck
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 23:00:08 -0500
I, as a retired IAM, United Airlines baggage handler, direct your attention to [http://retiree-protest.blogspot.com/] where, through my blog, I have expressed my support for your efforts. As I say in my blog, I offer my most sincere apology for the actions of the union of which I was so long a member.
I look upon your union as being on the forefront of a struggle that is being ignored by other unions. I commend you for your heroic stand against corporate tyranny. I wish you the best in your efforts.
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 22:56:37 -0500
Striking Members of AMFA:
I have tickets to fly Thursday using NW Airlines. I have just bought other tickets on another airline and will fly with them instead. I just wanted you to know you do have support. Good Luck.
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 22:40:06 -0500
I had plans to fly on Northwest from Austin to MSP next week. I am canceling my reservations and will find another way. I am disappointed that I could not find any information about this strike on the AFL-CIO or IAM websites. I don't know what's going on, but if labor is not united then all of us are in trouble. Austin, TX
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 22:14:24 -0500
To the AMFA at NWA: I just want to give kudos to the mechanics for standing up for their rights, and having the courage to strike for what they want! Corporate greed is rampant in the U.S., and the workers need to stand firm in their request to make a decent living with decent benefits and job security. We at United Airlines know only too well that if you give management an inch, they'll come back and ask for a mile.
I salute you for your bravery, and I wish you success. May you all be able to return to a job that is worth working.
A United Airlines Flight Attendant
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 22:01:55 -0500
Hello,
I support your NWA strike efforts in Detroit. Please let your striking members know that I (and many other flyers) support your wishes to avoid doing business with northwest airlines. I lived near Detroit 28 years and understand lifestyle of a hard working union employee. My father is a union employee. I currently live in Juneau Alaska and was planning a return to Michigan via northwest airlines. I will find another carrier now. I have also sent an email to NWA customer service informing them of the same thing. If they think they can save money by cutting some jobs, they need to understand that they are still messing with their CUSTOMERS as well.
Stay Strong.
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 21:58:27 -0500
I fully support your actions against the outrageous actions of NWA Management. There is no reason that the bosses and stockholders should increase their profits on the back of working men and women. I hope that the Labor movement will get over its petty bickering and come to your support. Solidarity
Received: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 17:30:37 -0400
As the wife of a Northwest mechanic I am tired of hearing about the pilot's pension being at risk. If they had the courage to walk off the job the first day of the strike this thing would be over and they would not have to worry about bankruptcy or losing their pensions. We have a lot more to worry about than our pensions! We are worried about losing jobs and our futures with a company that many of these people have devoted half their lives and also promoted the company to friends and relatives. A nice thank you from Northwest!
Received: Thu, 1 Sep 2005 09:41:47 -0400
Hello friends,
I have a ticket for flying NWA to India in December. However, to express my solidarity with your strike I am thinking of canceling my ticket although it would cost me around $300 in cancellation charges. Let me know if this would help your struggle in any way. I think it is important for us passengers to stand together with the striking employees in this struggle.
in solidarity