Strike Fund Discussion

2012-2016 Contract

Strike Fund Purpose

When we negotiate with our employer we do so to reach a new agreement - not a strike. In reality we must always be prepared to do what is necessary to achieve our goals. The decisions to reject unsatisfactory offers from managements are inevitably affected by the ability of Flight Attendants to feed themselves and their families A strike fund is needed to address the needs of Flight Attendants enduring the hardships of strikes or lockouts.

Being prepared cannot only win the strike for us, it may even help prevent the necessity of calling one. All workers build upon the gains of others, we must all make a commitment to provide the funds necessary to help colleagues when they are fighting for beneficial settlements. Building a Strike Fund through a temporary dues increase is a down payment toward a better future for all United Flight Attendants.

Why should we consider building a Strike Fund?

Contributions to a strategic strike fund today will build a stable financial fund for our future, when we may need it. Change our thinking to new, innovative and bold approaches to realize our potential during negotiations. This fund brings the power of financial stability AND a tool for offensive strategy and actions during negotiations.

We must leverage anger into action and channel energy into collective bargaining. The commitment to build a Strike Fund is an important symbol that the Union is dealing from a position of strength. We must always be prepared to do what is necessary to achieve our goals.

Management Responds to Militancy

Militancy and mobilization translates our numbers into power and leverage. Management only responds to pressure - that is what motivates the bargaining process. Security through a Fund allows us to generate more power.

We must overcome a management mindset that the company is entitled to concessions and feels no pressure to address the issues that matter to Flight Attendants and other workers. We must recognize airline executives are unwilling to agree to significant improvements without a fight. Flight Attendants will stand up to executives like never before with a strong Strike Fund.

Why does the Union always have to talk about striking?

Contrary to anti-union propaganda, the vast majority of AFA contracts are settled at the bargaining table without resorting to strike action. Nevertheless, there are times when talks alone don't succeed in resolving issues. A Strike Fund provides a strong incentive for employers to negotiate in good faith instead of trying to provoke strikes.

Lift Industry Standard Translates to Gains for United Flight Attendants

Collectively we are ready to take on the industry. The vast majority of Flight Attendants in our industry are in new or continuing Contract negotiations, including our own negotiations.

We must turn the concessionary tide and raise industry standard wages, benefits and working conditions for all Flight Attendants. The playing field this time is not in the courtroom; the playing field is out on the line and maybe in the streets.

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