Solidarity messages
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View solidarity messages from cabin crew >>
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Some messages from fellow cabin crew:
Just sending you my well wishes and support.
As a cabin crew member for an Australian Airline for the past 10 years I have watched airlines all over the world screw their staff.
For years airlines have been paying their staff less and less, giving longer hours and less rewards.
And at the end of the day they cry poor.
Airline like United and now British Airways want their staff to work for next to nothing, and even back here in Australia my airlines are crying poor while they continue to pay the fat cats at the top of the totem pole exorbitant wages.
Maybe they should take a pay cut and allow the money to flow to the people at the bottom.
So as a fellow cabin crew member stand strong and stand tough do not let the Airline break you.
You will always have my support.
Frank, Cabin Crew, Australia
I just wanted to send a message of support to all the BA crew who have
chosen to go on strike. We must fight harder than ever to stop our
jobs and conditions from deteriorating further, enough is enough!
P.S I will also be sending a letter to the BA pilots union expressing my
complete disgust that some of their members are acting as cabin crew,
one can only wonder what the reaction would be from pilots if cabin
crew somehow undermined their negotiations.
James Ricketts, Qantas Short Haul Cabin Crew, Sydney Australia.
Good Luck guys. Keep on standing up for yourselves. Flight Attendants all around the world support you.
Tania Thompson, Qantas Flight Attendant, Australia
Your fellow international cabin crew in Australia fully support your determined efforts to obtain a just resolution to your dispute with BA management.
It is great to see you act collectively to protect your conditions in the face of a very unreasonable employer.
On behalf of our membership in Australia we wish you a speedy and just resolution to the dispute.
Michael Mijatov, Secretary, Flight Attendants Association Australia - International Division, Australia
We stand behind and in support of our Brothers and Sisters at BA, represented by Unite, in their struggle for a fair and reasonable collective agreement with their employer. We will assist in any way we are able, and want to add our moral support to the fight for decent working conditions and wages for ALL cabin crew worldwide!
On behalf of the Air Transat Component of CUPE, representing the flight attendants based in YVR, YYZ and YUL (Locals 4078, 4047 and 4041), Canada
As a London based United Airlines flight attendant with over 16 years of flying experience (currently on union leave of absence doing some union building work in the Congo), I just wanted to express my support to you all. Please keep up the pressure on your employer and win a decent agreement. Your example is an inspiration to our own union (the AFA).
Hang in there - the fight is worth it!
In solidarity,
Michael-Eric Schwaabe, Country Program Director, Solidarity Center, AFL-CIO, Congo DR
The FEETS-FO (Federation Force Ouvrière of the Equipement of the Environment of the Transports and the Services) member of ETF expresses its solidarity with UNITE and the cabin crews of British Airways (BA) on strike.
We bring our support and our solidarity with the cabin crews of BA in their fight for the defense and the safeguard of their jobs and their working conditions.
Best regards, Good luck
Jean-Luc SECONDI, Fédéral Secretary, FEETS FO Fédération FORCE OUVRIERE, Equipement, Environnement, Transports, France
United Services Union (ver.di) stands steadfast in solidarity with Unite.
Results of the economic crisis and wrong decisions by management don’t’ have to paid by the employees. Instead the BA-board has to look after it’s responsibility and find intelligent solutions. To cut working conditions and freeze wages is a highly stupid step and will not have success.
It is the right of Unite colleagues to strike against such a policy and fight for better working conditions. We wish Unite success in it’s dispute.
Ver.di will support Unite in this just fight as much as we can.
We are proud to be your union comrades.
In solidarity,
Heidi Riedel-Ciesla/Ingo Kronsfoth, Ver.di, Germany
I’m totally with you on your plight for a fair settlement to your dispute. It's about time company bosses put away their bully tactics, in favour of round the table co-operation. Keep standing together, collectivity is the only way forward. Good luck to you all, union members everywhere are rooting for you!
Gary Griffin (Unite Activist), North East region, Great Britain
We are very sympathetic with your predicament as it reminds us of our cabin crew strike in 1993 which lasted for 17 days from 13 Jan that year over the Chinese New Year.
Our union is in very close tie with the committee of BAICCAHK, Carol Ng and her team. We will give you our fullest and strongest support for your cause. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you. Don't hesitate to contact us through Carol or us directly if there is anything we can do.
Warm Regards in SOLIDARITY,
Becky Kwan, Vice Chairman, Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union, Hong Kong
I, on behalf of IKAGI members, fully support all necessary action being taken by UNITE to defend the workers`rights.
Be strong, be brave and never give up to fight against the injustice.
Yours in SOLIDARITY,
Zainudin Malik, President, Garuda Indonesia Cabin Crew Association (IKAGI), Indonesia
On behalf of the Executive Board and members of Japan Airlines Cabin Crew Union (CCU), I would like to extend our heartfelt support and encouragement to your fight against British Airways.
I know that cabin crews contribute greatly to the success of your airline, and they deserve a fair share of this success, protection in difficult times, and – most of all- respect. I know also that respect is best achieved when you have a seat at the table and a voice through the UNITE.
We are always stand with you and ready to offer any assistance you may need.
In solidarity,
(Ms) Taeko Uchida, President, Japan Airlines Cabin Crew Union (JAL CCU), Japan
First of all, we all members of JAL Cabin Crew Union would like to pay tribute to your glorious resistance.
Your struggles give us great courage!
Let us keep on fighting together for a great victory!
In sincere solidarity,
Yoko Mori, a member of exective committee, JAL Cabin Crew Union (JAL CCU), Japan
BA cabin crew are only exercising their rights to protect their employment terms and conditions and this Willie Walsh is nothing but a menace causing havoc and disharmony industrial practice.
His strategies are to kill UNITE and to withstand the heat of disharmony practice.
It's time to act upon casting him OUT globally.
Good luck and go for it.
In solidarity,
Pauline Lim, MASEU Eexecutive Council/ITF APRC regional women's committee MASEU, Malaysia
We stand behind and in support of our Cabin Crew colleagues at BA, represented by Unite, in their struggle for a fair and reasonable collective (labour) agreement with their employer. The road BA Management has chosen in this dispute is a disaster for Cabin Crew worldwide. So we have to stand together. We shall assist in any way we are able, and want to add our moral support to the fight for decent working conditions, wages and retain the possibility that Cabin Crew act as service and flight safety professionals.
Unite(d) We Stand!
On behalf of our members at KLM, Leen van der List and Zakaria Boufangacha, Union Official FNV Bondgenoten / Cabin Pressure, at KLM, Netherlands
The Norwegian Cabin Crew Union sends greetings of solidarity to the hardship and tests of the BA cabin crew. Unfortunately we recognize the pressure on trade unions and some of the threats as we have faced similar scenarios during collective bargaining in Scandinavian Airlines over the last decade... Good luck.
Inger-Helene Enger, board member, Norwegian Cabin Crew Union, Norway
Stand firm and you will succeed. Times are hard, and you are probably starting to wonder if it is worth the struggle? IT IS!
The fight now will provide rewards in the future. Mr Walsh is just another Michael O'Leary, except he is smarter and better dressed. He represents the new executive generation and they need to be stopped. Executives that only see numbers and not the people behind the numbers will fail!
Stand firm and the best of luck! You are all doing a fantastic thing!
Eric Holm, Cabin Crew, Parat Luftfart, Norway
I work for a spanish airline- Air Europa as a crew member and this email is just to offer my support for the BA strike.
Best wishes from Spain and good luck.
A. Santos, Spain
Greetings from flight attendants on this side of the pond! We send you support and stand with you in your fight this March 27-30th with British Airways mgmt. Be strong and proud as you fight for a SECURE and FAIR labor contract that addresses issues confronting our global flight attendant community.
It is with admiration that I send this email to you. I have great respect and pride for your courage as you battle a vindictive management that continues to seek concessions from an integral labor force that is responsible for the safety of its passengers and directly influences the return of those very passengers to fly British Airways again. Your determination and commitment must prevail in order to succeed.
So stay strong...stay proud...and SUCCEED!!!
Hilston Nuuhiwa, Chief Purser, United Airlines, AFA, US
I am a flight attendant for United Airlines in the U.S. Like British Airlines, management at United has delayed negotiations, misrepresented supposed “benefits” that they are offering, (which in reality are more concessions) and continue to do all they can to undermine our profession and careers. Their complete disregard, indeed, contempt for us as safety professionals and front-line employees is deplorable.
Please understand that you have my full support and encouragement. If I was in London, I would be marching beside you each and every day in support of your strike. I commend you on your courage to stand strong, united against corporate greed and mismanagement. I have no doubt that you will win this face-off, and when you do, I will be raising a glass to you. Your strength, your courage and your dedication is a lesson to all of us, and I thank you for it.
Stand united. Stand strong!
Robert Brimlow, AFA, US
Stand strong! We support you.
Jill Huspen (Chicago based United Airlines flight attendant), AFA-CWA, US
I am a Boston based United Airlines Flight Attendant. This is just a quick note to say we support you and your efforts to get a fair contract. We are not behind you, but, we stand beside you. Good Luck and stay strong. Remember always: United we stand and therefore we will not fall.
What Ever it Takes!
Belinda Kaiser, BOS SW AFA-CWA, US
I'm a 25 year veteran employee of United Airlines based in Chicago. Just wanted to say that my fellow crew members and myself FULLY support your decision to strike against British Airways. It is about time that someone stood up for our rights and respect. All of us in the states are looking to you as we are also going through negotiations right now and dealing with the very same issues. It is amazing to me that we are the face of the airline, but never treated with the respect that we are entitled to in that position. None of us ever took this job to be financially well off, and we're not asking for more than a decent wage and working condition. Our mutual managements have simply decided that we are expendable and not worthy of respect and fair pay. It is a shame because it could be the end of all the once great airlines of the world. Again please know that we wish you the best and we thank you for fighting the good fight as soon it will be our turn over here!
Take Care and god bless!
David Silver, United Airlines, Chicago, USA, AFA-CWA
I just wanted to send my support to your members during this difficult time. I hope that management will get the message that they cannot walk all over the employees especially the front line staff.
B Gray, United flight attendant at LHR, AFA-CWA, US
I am a veteran flight attendant at United Airlines, just want to express my support in your battle!
Good Luck!
Sophie Gratson, AFL-CIO member, US
Thank you for your hard work, dedication and committment to improve compensation and working conditions-- not only for BA--- but for throughout our industry worldwide.
As you may know, many USA based airline are currently undergoing Section 6 Contract negotiations. We are encouraged by the actions in solidarity UNITE and its members are taking to curb corporate greed and to properly provide for their vital frontline
safety professionals!
Good luck and keep up the good work!
Adriaan Arends, Flight Attendant, Membership Engagement Co-Chair AFA/CWA Council 21, Washington DC, US
You all have my support from across the pond. I am with United and we truly appreciate your role as the first out there to strike. What happens with you, affects us as well and your ability to stick to your guns is positive talk for us on the jumpseat.
Nick Jamilla, United Airlines FA, Washington, DC, AFA-CWA, US
Be assured we are all watching the events you are experiencing and the action you are taking! It is a familiar topic of discussion and you have our compassion and support!
We are familiar with this ancient paradigm from which so many companies today operate! It is time to change, but it will not without your brave and solid stand against the "old" mind set.
We too are facing the very action you are in the midst of and you inspire us! Thank you!
Page Meade, UAL Flight Attendant, Washington, DC, AFA-CWA, US
applauding your strength for striking...
fighting for good working conditions
and fair compensation.
you are on my mind
whatever it takes
margot (united airlines fa) AFA-CWA, US
I had only been with United Airlines for one year when our pilots went on strike and our union went on strike with them. Being junior, I was one of the last to be called back. I was out for 3 months, but I survived and have 26 years with United now. There were so many rumors and I will never forget that one of the people that crossed called me and told me that I better come back and that the company was being so nice and that they even had donuts for everyone at the crewdesk. Fortunately for me, I did not fall for the donuts and proudly returned to the line in September where I was graciously received from all the other pilots and flight attendants who honored the strike. The scabs had to live with their decision too. They always complained about everything but could not stand up to fight to change it. Do not be one of those people who are afraid. Stand tall and stand together. The donuts represent instant gratification and short sightedness. Go the distance, I did it, you can do it. In Solidarity.
Cathy Sisson, SFOSW, AFA-CWA, US
To all the Flight Attendants at British Airways participating in the strike: The British Airways name and reputation was built with the help of the Flight Attendants who have sacrificed pay and working conditions to keep the airline running. I know only too well of your struggle being a 25 year veteran with United Airlines. Believe me, American and United Airlines are watching very closely what happens with you. Stay strong and stay United to show your management that they cannot operate British Airways without you. You have my support and the support of every AFA member all over the world. Sincerely.
William Hootnick (San Francisco), AFA-CWA, US
hi my name is sherry
I am a flight attendant for united
I wanted to encourage you
to press on til you get the monies we deserve in this industry
we are right behind you
getting prepared to strike to
thank you for leading the way
and being an example
sincerely
sherry, Afa-Cwa, US
Just wanted to send a note in support of your actions. I personally know a few BA Cabin Crew Members and I hear about your deteriorating management. We must fight to preserve a career in the brink of extinction. Thanks for your bravery and I hope it serves as good inspiration for us at UA.
Bruce Biggs, AFA-CWA, US
Please know the eyes of labour around the world are watching how you are being treated and applauding your actions for standing strong in what you believe. Your fellow flight attendants appreciate your resolve and sacrifice as Management attempts to take our profession and turn it in to nothing more than a job.
Stay Strong!
Heidi v H Pennink, United Airlines Flight Attendant, Denver, Colorado USA, AFA-CWA, US
It's the same circus, just in a different tent. We are all watching and standing with you!!
Best of luck for a positive outcome.
Dawn Callahan, United Airlines, AFA-CWA, US
As a United Flight Attendant, Mother, wife. I support your action to strike get the best contract in this low pay bad work condition environment.
Bonnie Chen, AFA CWA member, US
I am a flight attendant for United Airlines. I would like to send a message of support to all UNITE members who are standing firm in your fight to preserve the flight attendant profession from pay and working condition concessions at the hands of British Airways management.
I know it's a cliche, but it bears repeating: If you win, we all win, as United and American Airlines management and others are no doubt watching these negotiations and strikes very closely. I am very impressed with your organization's determination, as in our current, down-turned economy with high rates of unemployment, it would be easy to give in to an unsympathetic public coupled with government pressure to call off the strikes.
Our profession is at a crossroads, and many of the same industry trends (outsourcing, increased productivity demands at the cost of quality of life, the list goes on....) are affecting carriers on either side of the Atlantic. Thank you for standing firm.
I am based in Chicago and fly domestic, or I would proudly join your picket lines as some of my flying partners based in LHR have done. Indeed, there are many, many flight attendants at United Airlines there with you in spirit!!
I will be following the next strike closely on BBC, and cheering you on at every step!
Anthony Isaac Boesen, AFA-CWA, US
Good luck and best wishes from a former United Airlines flight attendant.
Please know how many people understand what you are going through and admire your resolve. I retired after 39 years of management/union struggles.
Glad to be out of it but I stand in solidarity with my extended airline family.
Carrie Ettredge, Denton, Texas, AFA-CWA, US
We here in Chicago, as members of AFA/CWA and flight attendants for United Airlines, support you in your strike efforts against British Airways. NO UNION ATTENDANTS...NO FLY BRITISH AIRWAYS!
Good Luck, Kathy Mays, AFA-CWA, US
stay strong
we support your efforts to protect the cabin crew profession with dignity!!
sincerely,
christian hertneky, united airlines flight attendant, SFO AFA-CWA local 11, US
United Flight Attendants Support You!!!
UNITED FLIGHT ATTENDANTS ARE THINKING OF YOU AND SUPPORTING YOUR EFFORTS. PLEASE REMAIN STRONG!!!!
AFA-CWA, US
Congrats!!!
To all F/A BA; Congrats!... for been so united in solidarity. Hope all the problems with managements will be resolved soon.
More power to all of you!
United LAX F/A , AFA-CWA, US
I work for Delta and fully support the stance you have taken up against Willie Walsh and his forceful tactics.
I have written your pilot union and expressed my disappointment over them allowing fellow union members to work as strike breakers. I said they played right into Willie Walsh hands.
Anything I can do for you on this side of the pond please let me know.
Sincerely,
Don R. McBryde, Former Northwest Airlines FA and proud AFA union member, US
I work for United Airlines, and realize everyday the importance of creating a better workplace for our industry. For you to strike, you are being brave. I admire and encourage what you are doing. I know it may be unsettling. But keep faith that we are standing along side you, albeit on the other side of the ocean! We must ALL band together to make a better life for ourselves. Never let management break you up. If we all stand by what we need, we will achieve what we want. You are a face not only of the United Kingdom, but for the world. You deserve what it is that we fight for!
Stand strong, and stand in unison. I'm so, so very proud of you.
Kara Mullins Washington D.C. United Flight Attendant, AFA-CWA, USA
What Ever It Takes!!!!
Wish I could walk with you.
In Solidarity,
Barbara Noyer, AFA United Airlines San Francisco, California
United F/A supports Unite
Stand strong, stand united.
Laura Shea, United Airlines Flight Attendant, AFA, Council 12, Los Angeles
I am a fellow Unionist and active member of the Association of Flight Attendants working for United Airlines. What your group fights for FAIR COMPENSATION, we fight for in the U.S. for our group. Good luck and do not give up as your fight is our fight for all of us in the aviation industry.
Michael Desrosiers, AFA-CWA, US
I'm a flight attendant at United Airlines, and I just wanted to send out an email of support to all of my brothers and sisters at British Airways. Please keep up the pressure on your company's management. You're in our thoughts over here in the States.
Taylor St. Theos, United Airlines Flight Attendant, AFA-CWA, US
We at united airlines hope that you can stand strong against what management. Airline management around the world are all trying to take take take and seem to always have money for themselves. Its time the gave some of that back to the employees. Make BA pay and keep your jobs safe.
-United Cabin Crew, AFA-CWA, US
Our 55,000 members throughout the world support your struggle, especially our 600 members based at LHR.
I know our Local President Saad Bhatkar in London will do whatever it takes to help your members in this difficult time. Please feel free to contact either of us for any assistance.
In solidarity,
Kevin P Creighan, International Secretary-Treasurer, Association of Flight Attendants - CWA, AFL-CIO, USA
We need to all stick together as cabin crew, and aviation crew, to prevent the erosion of our wages and conditions. As if things erode too far not only will safety standards slide, so to will guest service and therefore guest satisfaction (ie:return business), and most importantly crew satisfaction!!
Stick to your guns BA Cabin Crew!!!
We are all thinking of you!
Jodie Bartlett
Just to let u know, that I, matthew dunning a virgin crew member fa for 5yrs now, show my support for the ba crew having to strike.
matthew dunning, virgin crew member
Some messages from ITF affiliates:
Algeria
Solidarity with British airways workers
Khaled Miloudi, Fédération Nationale des Travailleurs des Transports - Union Générale des Travailleurs Algériens
Argentina
On behalf the Masters, Mates and Pilots of Argentina, I want to express our solidarity and full support to your campaign.
Wishing the best success,
In solidarity
Marcos Castro, President, Centro de Capitanes de Ultramar, Argentina
Australia
We are heartened by the strength and resilience of our brothers and sisters at Unite. Your struggle is one that we all share, as we encounter a global push to reduce the wages and working conditions of aviation workers worldwide.
Paul Howes, national secretary, Australian Workers' Union
A union meeting comprised of metro delegates from station staff, signalers, train controllers and Authorised Officers unanimously moved and carried a resolution in support of BA workers. The meeting was held on Friday March 26th at 10.00am (Australian Time).
Regards and best wishes to all involved in the dispute, especially the tireless picketers.
Solidarity forever
Vic Moore, RTBU Rail Operations Divisional Secretary, Victorian Branch
Dear Unite Colleagues,
The Australian unionist are watching the actions of british imperialism in there onslaught at trade unionism in the UK.
Andrew, Rank and file activist, Maritime Union of Australia, Australia
Barbados
Solidarity support for BA crew
Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important then fear - (Ambrose Redmoon).
Your courage to stand up for what is right and just will not escape the attention of the world which will judge BA management harshly for its intimidatory tactics.
Please know that your comrades of the Barbados Workers' Union support you and are heartened by your steadfastness. Go forth in faith.
-Barbados Workers’ Union
Belgium
The Belgium cabin crew delegates of the Union SETCa/BBTK support UNITE in their action for working conditions and safety.
Anita Van hoof, Secretary SETCa/BBTK
Brazil
With a deep sense of solidarity we join our comrades the BA cabin crew in dispute. We lend our support to the assertive action now taking place on the European continent and worldwide. We, Brazilians in aviation, represented by this Federation, are at your disposal to help bring about a successful outcome in this matter.
Luiz Sérgio de A. Dias, Secretary for International Relations, FENTAC
Burkina Faso
The workers of SUMAC, Burkina Faso through this message express their unwavering and unreserved support of the just and legitimate struggle of the UNITE union at British Airways. In a burst of active solidarity, we especially wish to encourage our brothers and sisters at British Airways engaged in this struggle to improve their working conditions and the legitimate defense of their jobs. We therefore urgently appeal to the leaders of British Airways to open negotiations with our UNITE comrades.
We wish our comrades from the UNITE union courage and luck
Long live UNITE! Long live the ITF! Long live international union solidarity!
Ouagadougou, March 25, 2010, for the National executive office
Emmanuel Gustave Compaore, General Secretary of SUMAC
Burma
We, Seafarers Union of Burma (S.U.B) on behalf of Burmese seafarers, fishers and fishery workers are in full solidarity support for your struggle.
Canada
We are willing and able to help with your efforts in any way we can.
David Pacheco, president, Local 4094 Vancouver, airline division of Canadian Union of Public Employees
We would like to offer our support to British Airway’s cabin crew workers and Bassa/Unite in this dispute. Since the new millennium, airline workers have been in a constant struggle to maintain their jobs and a decent standard of living while being expected to work harder and longer with less staff. Airline workers have not escaped the global economy. We appreciate that the fight you are going through is on behalf of workers everywhere.
Leslie Dias, president, Local 2002, Canadian Auto Workers
Thank you for standing up against management cuts, your actions are showing me the importance of working for justice. I wish you luck in your struggle against BA.
Marion Pollack, Canadian Union of Postal Workers
Caw Local 4457 of Brampton, Ontario, Canada is in full support of the BA Cabin Crews strike. In solidarity.
Bryant LeRoux, President, CAW Local 4457
Our members are thinking of you in your struggle. You will win.
David Condon, President, Medicine Hat & District Labour Council, Canada
On behalf of the 54,000 members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, I am sending you a message of support and solidarity in your struggle for justice and fairness for the workers at British Airways.
We know that you will be on strike as part of an ongoing dispute with British Airways over management cuts. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers salutes you for standing up against these unfair cuts.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is appalled and angry that flights departing from the UK during strike dates are likely to be crewed by strike breakers. We know from our bitter experience that the use of strike breakers does not shorten the strike or improve labour relations in either the short or long term.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers knows that cuts proposed by British Airways are part of a world wide attack on workers and their Unions.
Thank you for your courage and commitment. Even though we are separated by a very large ocean, we are standing shoulder to shoulder with you.
In Solidarity,
Denis Lemelin, National President, Canadian Union of Postal Workers,
Canada
Good luck in your struggle and remember united we stand but divided we all fall!
In solidarity,
George X Tomaszewski, 1st Vice President, Canadian Union of Postal Workers - Scarborough Local Canada
Croatia
Go on, and good luck to all of you!
Katarina Mindum, Railway Workers' Trade Union of Croatia
Croatian support to BA Trade Union
Leo Simic, President, SSKL union
DR Congo
Please find enclosed the solidarity message to support the British Airways Cabin Crew. Their fight is just and worthy. All the SYTRACOM members support these courageous brothers and sisters and express their solidarity.
Guy Kuku Gedila, General Secretary of SYTACOM, DRCONGO
Ethiopia
At this crucial event of your struggle aimed for the right of your members, I would like to confirm you that Ethiopian workers in all modes of transport are in solidality with you until the dispute is resolved and we pledge you to do our best for the success of your union.
Daniel Gebeyehu, President, The Transport & Communication Workers' Trade Union Industrial Federation, Ethiopia
Finland
We support UNITE. The Finnish Transport Union AKT ry is closely watching the situation and supporting UNITE in achieving a resolution to this dispute.
Katri Höök, Union Officer, Finnish Transport Workers' Union - AKT ry.
France
We heavily condemn BA for their blatant disregard to crew as safety and security professionals who are proud to work for a major airline that until now provides quality service for passengers that pay to travel in a safe and comfortable cabin with the insurance that in the case of any incident B.A. crews are trained and experienced enough to deal capably with them.
J Pelan, CFDT FRANCE
Our general Federation for Transport and Equipment (FGTE-CFDT) would like to express our solidarity during your strike action. Liberal management practices lead to unacceptable minimal social standards, to the loss of benefits often won through hard battles and to a dangerous degradation of working conditions. The FGTE-CFDT supports your action and will act as your intermediary with our member unions.
In solidarity
André Milan, General secretary and Liliane Debeche, responsible for the international sector FGTE-CFD.
We are looking at your struggle very carefully because we are all concerned by the outcome, and because the means of BA’s management are not acceptable. You have the right to defend your pensions, your jobs and your right of striking.
All the workers affiliated to the CGT in France support your fight and we will come to support you in London. We realise that it is difficult for you and that the battle is lasting. Don't give up! Willie Walsh is the one who must leave the company. The planes will still take off when he will be gone! You are the heart of the business and he is the "cancer"!!!
Keep fighting for your rights, that's how we can stay alive.
On behalf of the French workers I send you this message of solidarity. We will come soon in London to express it to the media. Your struggle is an example for us all in Europe and will impact us all.
See you all soon brothers and sisters.
Olivier Sekai, ETF Civil Aviation Vice Chair, CGT, France
Guinea Conakry
STOP INJUSTICE! STOP VIOLENCE! STOP ANTI-TRADE UNIONISM!
YES TO DECENT WORK FOR ALL! YES TO A BETTER FUTURE FOR WORKERS!
THE FIGHT CONTINUES FOR A DECENT FUTURE FOR ALL TRANSPORT WORKERS!
BANGOURA MAGBE, General Secretary of FENATRAMP-G
COORDINATOR FOR THE ITF NETWORK IN GUINEA CONAKRY
Great Britain
Solidarity to all those supporting this strike.
Millie boundy, GMB, Heathrow, Great Britian
From the Facebook Group, I support the British Airways Workers:
We recognize the struggle that the cabin crews are engaged with at BA is down to one thing only the management’s underlying plan to turn British Airways into a "Flag of Convenience" airline of the skies.
Members of the Southampton Shipping Branch
The cabin crews who have the courage to oppose BA are fighting for the right of UK citizens to work!
Mick Stubbs Chairman of RMT and members of the Southampton Shipping Branch
Full support for your struggle....... Kia kaha (be strong)
In Unity,
Finlay McIntosh, ITF/Seafarers Dept, Great Britain
Please keep up the pressure on BA for your rights and ensure that workers' rights are not something that can be easily compromised. We hope you will endeavor to ensure that the right messages get across to the media and public about the valid reasons for striking and importance of the workers' right.
Best wishes,
Sonam Dugdak, Section Assistant, ITF, Great Britain
Although I know it's difficult under sustained pressure to keep in your head what it is you are still fighting for, I truly believe that some fights are really worth a satisfactory outcome TO ALL PARTIES, and that means to you too! We cannot let bullies dictate to us all the time, it is only through negotiation round a table that things get resolved in a sustainable way, AND THAT IS WORTH FIGHTING FOR!! Keep strong, Keep together, and Keep fighting for what is right!! Good Luck to you all.
Gary Griffin, Redundant Engineer, Unite the Union, Great Britain
I fully sympathise with what you are struggling against here. I would love to know what is going on in this country, if you cannot withdraw your labour you are a slave!
I hope you win your battle against bullying and weakening of your T&C's.
Solidarity Brothers & Sisters.
Dave Goodwin, RMT Health & Safety Rep, Network Rail, Great Britain
Considering the hardships you have been through your tenacity must be admired. The Employer you are dealing with has shown an absolute determination to put the Union and its workers on their knees. B.A. is not a good Corporate Citizen and Mr. Walsh does not seem to grasp the fact that workers are people. I can only offer support and hope that a lightning bolt strikes and brings sense to this Employer. If workers showed the same pettiness they would be castigated world-wide.
In Solidarity,
James Mc Auley, Able Seaman, Rail Maritime and Transport Workers, Great Britain
India
The Aviation Industry Employees' Guild (AIEG)... pledges total support to the UNITE in its endeavour to secure decent service conditions for its crew members..
George Abraham, general secretary, Aviation Industry Employees Guild, India
It is a matter of serious concern that British Airways workers have been compelled to take strike action. Our union, which represents over 1.4 million railway employees in India, extends its full solidarity.
Shiva Gopal Mishra, general secretary, All India Railwaymen’s Federation
As a Chairperson of N.F.Railway Mazdoor Union/Youth Committee,I Mr.Bijan Deb whole heartedly appreciate the step taken by your Union to fight against explitation and discrimination being done to you.You are fighting our own battle in our own way and may be you are at our brink of patience.Please accept my support on behalf of my Union and hope we can stand together to fight our battle collectively.Our hands are to reach your heart and we can feel for the fight tou are fighting.
Bijan Deb./Chairperson/Youth Committee/N.F.Railway Mazdoor Union.
Japan
Dear Brothers and Sisters in the UNITE,
On behalf of 70,000 members of the Japan Confederation of Railway Workers’ Unions I express a heartfelt solidarity to Brothers and Sisters of the UNITE which has continued an industrial action against BA’s rebuilding plan of deterioration of working conditions.
In every country in order to survive global economic crisis, companies sacrifice workers. It is also a matter of grave concern that BA is pursuing union-busting by mobilizing mass media to spread harsh criticism against the union. Similar to your situation, we are now fighting against oppression in Japan.
Brothers and Sisters, your brave fighting gives us power. Your struggle is our struggle. Please remember on the other side of the planet we are standing with you. We have already put out a union bulletin on your industrial action. We wish you a successful campaign in your fighting, and we look forward to sharing your winning report on the occasion of ITF 42nd Congress in Mexico!
In global solidarity
Masaharu Takei, President, Japan Confederation of Railway Workers Unions (JRU)
Jordan
We fully support UNITE. As the union representing workers in Royal Jordanian Airlines, a Oneworld partner, we are watching this situation closely and are ready to take all reasonable practical action within our national capacity to support UNITE in achieving a resolution to this dispute.
The General Trade Union of Workers in Air Transport and Tourism, Jordan
Kenya
We are in solidarity with you guys. Nothing comes easy from an employer. You have our total support. We are also so encouraged you will go through eventually. That will tell us that with solidarity and perseverance nothing is impossible.
Aluta Continua.
Simon Sang, General Secretary, Dock Workers Union Kenya, Kenya
Kosovo
The Independent Trade Union of Traffic and Communications in Kosovo (SPKLK), strongly supports our BA brothers, and ask BA authorities to realize the reasonable requirements of our colleagues, their requirements are also ours.
Alush Sejdiu - President of SPKLK Pristina, Kosovo
Lebanon
We believe that your strike is justified and send our full support and solidarity for securing your working conditions and cabin crew profession as safety professionals.
George Turkieh, L.C.C.A. international relations coordinator
Malawi
The Railway Workers Union of Malawi wholeheartedly supports the Action being taken by the BA Workers together with UNITE. We are really rallying behind you Comrades.
Viva BA workers viva UNITE!!
Luther Mambala, Railway Workers Union of Malawi
Malaysia
We must fight for our rights. Workers of the world unite.
Jeevindran, Member of the Socialist Party of Malaysia, Malaysia
We support and encourage your struggle for the workers right
Rosli Din, Officer, Malaysia Airline System Bhd, Malaysia
Mongolia
On behalf of Mongolian Civil Aviation Workers and other members, we would like to express our full support on the industrial action taken by the British Airways cabin crew struggle against BA management and authorities.
Mongolian Transport Communication and Petroleum workers Union, Mongolia
Morocco
Since two years ago British Airways no longer operates routes to Morocco, which deprives us of this great battle between unions and employers and a give British Airways a sense of international solidarity between workers in aviation. In any case, and in the name of all my comrades, I'd like to express our solidarity and ask you to transmit our wishes for success in this trial of strength against BA management.
Long live international solidarity
FNTA UMT, Morocco
Netherlands
We stand behind and in support of our Cabin Crew colleagues at BA, represented by Unite, in their struggle for a fair and reasonable collective (labour) agreement with their employer. The road BA Management has chosen in this dispute is a disaster for Cabin Crew worldwide. So we have to stand together. We shall assist in any way we are able, and want to add our moral support to the fight for decent working conditions, wages and retain the possibility that Cabin Crew act as service and flight safety professionals.
Unite(d) We Stand!
On behalf of our members at KLM, Leen van der List and Zakaria Boufangacha, Union Official FNV Bondgenoten / Cabin Pressure, at KLM, Netherlands
New Zealand
The Rail and Maritime Transport Union wish our BA brothers and sisters a successful industrial campaign in their fight to maintaining the working conditions of professional cabin crew.
Michael Reed, Secretary-Treasurer
Wayne Butson, General Secretary, Rail and Maritime Transport Union, New Zealand
Solidarity to all BA aircrew and their union, UNITE in their struggle against BA wage and condition cutting from the National Distribution Union of New Zealand.
Robert Reid, General Secretary, National Distribution Union, Auckland
To all of our comrades at Unite,
Please accept our 1800 members' support for your cause during this significant time of strike.
The airlines use bullying tactics and their financial resources to try and break the strength of our collective causes but what they don’t acknowledge is that a strike actually indicates their own failures, and the opportunity to 'look in the mirror' at themselves and how they are turning their backs on the very people who contribute to their success!
To go 'above and beyond' the needs of the customer deserves the investment as tabled by you and the genuine intentions to look after their vital frontline staff. It's all about you crew who can make a good flight GREAT, but you need great management who facilitate that through recognition. BA management need to take a look in the mirror and create more value in your performance - not demand more and more value from you unrewarded.
We would stand alongside you in person were it not for the geographical distance, but be assured our hearts and minds are there - every step of the way!
Pete Bentley, General Secretary, Flight Attendants and Related Services (NZ) Association (FARSA), New Zealand
Nicaragua
We encourage you brothers and sister. You are not alone, there are thousands of workers in the world of Aviation who are united with you in your struggle and protest. We hope will soon end in victory as you deserve with dignity.
Mr. Felix Porras Ruiz, Secretary General, Independent Workers Union, Nicaragua
Nigeria
This is a message of solidarity and commendation for the great work being done in respect to the UNITE/BA faceoff. At the Nigerian end of the air transport business, whatever is needful and legal shall be done here to sustain the strike action at the appropriate time. Do keep on trucking, we are with you"
Olayinka Abioye, ATSSSAN, Nigeria
Message of solidarity from Ayo
Ayo Ohiwereh, Section Assistant, ITF, Nigeria
Norway
The Norwegian Cabin Crew Union sends greetings of solidarity to the hardship and tests of the BA cabin crew. Unfortunately we recognize the pressure on trade unions and some of the threats as we have faced similar scenarios during collective bargaining in Scandinavian Airlines over the last decade... Good luck.
Inger-Helene Enger, board member, Norwegian Cabin Crew Union
Our full support to UNITE and British Airways cabin crew in their fight for just social conditions ! Your struggle sets an example for transport-workers worldwide fighting the consequences of extreme neoliberal politics. We follow your struggle closely and stand behind you in solidarity!
Øystein Aslaksen, Chair, Norwegian Locomotive drivers union, Norway
Pakistan
We strongly support BA cabin crew for their actions and fully endorse their demands. Please keep on struggling for the betterment of your members, we are always with you for this noble cause of workers. Any practical support we are ready at all levels.
Nazeer Tahir, Vice president, Peoples Unity of PIA Employees.
Peoples Unity of PIA Employees (CBA) is always with their Civil Aviation brothers for their struggle for their rights. We strongly believe that joint efforts are always result orientated. We had a long long fight with our dictators and got Union rights. Now struggling for workers rights through Charter of Demand.
Your demands are genuine and we stand with you within our limited resources. If you need any assistance please don’t hesitate to call us. Our moral and practical support in our country is with you.
Hope you will keep in touch and we will fight together for our group and ranks.
With all regards,
Nazeer Tahair, Peoples Unity of Pia Employees, Vice President, Pakistan International Airlines, Pakistan
Philippines
Hello there my dear Brothers & Sisters Cabin Crew of British Airways. I congratulate you all for the success of your recent strike & unwavering trust & support on your union. I being a PALEA member, as in Philippine AirLines Employees Association, salute your solidarity against unfair labor practice, reduce benefits & wages & union busting.
More power & god bless.
Allain Cabasal, Catering Attendant - 2, Philippine Air Lines - Catering Department Philippines
Romania
We are with you!
Marian Panfiloiu and Dan Axinte, president and vice president of the Tarom Technical Trade Union
Senegal
Our union supports the action of BA and we manifest our solidarity with BA workers.
Saidou DIEME, General Secretary, sdts-sap/ac, Senegal
Spain
THAT IS THE WAY. IN SOLIDARITY,
ESTEBAN PEREDA, ELA-hainbat, Spain
The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), of which TCM-UGT forms part, has expressed its solidarity with the claims of the Bassa/Unite union at British Airways...
TCM-UGT, Spain (download full text at bottom of page)
It is with repulse, anger and astonishment that CCOO receives the news from our sister union UNITE about the latest management’s unexpected and incomprehensible change of mind regarding the talks to steer towards a sensible decision the British Airways (BA) cabin crew dispute...
CCOO, Spain (download full text at bottom of page)
Turkey
We wish to convey to you our total solidarity with the struggle you are waging. If BA management succeeds in destroying one of the strongest organised sections of the BA workforce, many other airlines in Europe and the rest of the world will follow the suit. This is why we consider your struggle as our own.
Yours in solidarity,
Mustafa Yağcı, General Secretary, On behalf of Turkish Civil Aviation Union (Hava-İş)
Brothers, Sisters,
Greetings from Turkey.
Your unity is giving us a good lesson about the fighting/protection for the rights of the workers. We are learning again that what the struggle by your great actions is. Please accept our thanks for this solidarity. Because the solidarity is not only means for us that we should be there with you or you should be here with us. Most important thing is, if all the workers are fighting by the strike on all over the world for giving the solidarity to all the workers, that means we are shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart.
Me and my union is sending to you/brothers-sisters all our deepest wishes and I am sure that we will see better days thanks to you and all fighter.
With solidarity,
Muzaffer Civelek, ITF Inspector, DADDER, Turkey
Tuvalu
We send all our support and brotherhood to all our sisters and brothers in the Unite BA Cabin Crew for standing up against the tide. As in rivers with strong currents only the Debris goes with the flow.
Fepuali Kitiseni, General Secretary, Tuvalu Overseas Seamen’s Union
Thailand
Dear All – I have a solidarity message for Unite BA Cabin Crew from ITF-Thai affiliates, please help to pass it on. Thank you.
UNITED we Stand
DEVIDED we fall
All ITF Affiliates in Thailand support UNITE BA Cabin Crew Fight for your rights and for the public safety!
Best regards
Phueng, ITF-Thai
Turkey
I wish exact success for your strike and greetings for your action from Turkey.
Muzaffer Civelek. ITF Inspector Turkey.
USA
We send our support in your battle to maintain what you have won over the years. We too must fight some employers who would like to turn the clock back to a period where workers had no rights, no voice and few or no benefits on the job... Stay strong, stay united and you will prevail.
Maya DeHart, airport director and Debbie Anderson, international affairs director, UNITE HERE! (hotel, airport, food service and gaming union), North America
We stand ready to demonstrate our support and solidarity...by any legal means necessary. As airlines become increasingly global, it is critical for unions and union members to become global in their efforts to protect the interest of working people.
Robert Roach, Jr. transportation general vice president, International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers (IAM)
Your colleagues at the AFA are ready, willing, and able to help!
You have a just cause and we fully support your struggle.
Kevin P Creighan, International Secretary-Treasurer, Association of Flight Attendants - CWA, AFL-CIO
The below was published today in the Communications Workers of America newsletter.
We're standing with you:
Solidarity Update!
Flight attendants at British Airways who are members of the
British union Unite are ready for a four day strike March 27-30,
said AFA-CWA. During last week's three-day strike, more than 80
percent of crew supported the action.
If the crew does strike, any British Airways flight operating
March 27-30 will be crewed by scab labor. So mark your calendars
and don't fly British Airways on those dates.
Unite flight attendants are fighting back against management's
demand to cut 1,700 jobs, impose a two-year wage freeze and set
up a two-tier job system. Unite has been working hard to reach a
settlement with management and has done everything possible to
avoid the strike, but so far, management refuses to seriously
consider the cabin crew's offer.
Pat Friend, International President, AFA-CWA, US
We admire greatly your struggle for dignity and decent standards. Willie and his ilk must be challenged.
In solidarity.
Tim Beaty, Global Strategies Director, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, USA
You are not alone in this struggle, airlines will always cry poverty and try and extract concessions from their workers. They will blame the volcano, 9-11, the cost of oil or any other newsworthy issue to defend their actions. We see through their excuses and support you, the men and women who work every day to keep us safe in flight.
In Solidarity,
Ruth Stilwell, Air Traffic Controller, NATCA, USA
Over 350,000 workers in the hotel, food service, gaming and airport sectors in the United States and Canada send greetings of solidarity. We have also had to deal with greedy employers recently, and by standing together and being committed to the fight, we have prevailed.
Your cause is just and your fight is right. Stay united and stay strong. You will prevail.
UNITE HERE - US and Canada
Debbie Anderson, Director, International Affairs Department, UNITE HERE, USA
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