UAW-Represented APFA Staff Strike Over Stalled Contract Negotiations

UAW-Represented Staff at APFA Initiate Strike Amidst Stalled Negotiations

Dallas, TX — Staff members at the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), represented by the United Auto Workers (UAW), have commenced a strike. The action comes in response to a breakdown in contract negotiations with APFA management, who have been accused of not bargaining in good faith. This group, consisting of 11 clerical, administrative, and support staff, rejected the latest contract proposal due to concerns over diminishing bargaining power, inadequate wages, job security issues, and other vital concerns affecting their welfare. This strike is a first for the unit since its affiliation with the UAW in 1989.

Historically, UAW-represented staff have been key supporters of APFA’s initiatives to improve flight attendants’ working conditions. However, now they find themselves advocating for their own rights and financial stability on the picket line.

After the expiration of their contract on October 1, negotiations began a few weeks prior but reached an impasse after six sessions. Key issues remain unresolved, including the safeguarding of staff roles, equitable representation, and just wages.

Kim Ramos, who has been with the organization for 38 years and serves as the UAW Chairperson, voiced her frustration over the stalled talks:

“We are saddened that APFA has refused to bargain in good faith, and now we walk the line in solidarity to better the livelihoods of the UAW-represented staff employees. We may be small, but we are mighty and 100% in solidarity.”

Cheryl Stubblefield, President of UAW Local 129, also criticized the management’s stance, highlighting a discrepancy between their actions and declared values:

“I am beyond words to witness the utter disrespect our UAW T.O.P. workers have encountered. Their employer claims to want to ‘humanize’ workers and evolve the labor movement, but after days of talk, that promise has not been realized. We must stand for justice for all workers. We must stand for economic freedom. We must stand today to protect and advance all the rights that have been bargained for. Will you stand today in support of our labor movement?”

Determined to secure a fair deal, the striking staff are urging APFA to return to negotiations with a genuine commitment to recognizing the contributions of employees who have supported the union’s goals for many years.