Whenever a Tentative Agreement is out for a ratification vote, passionate opinions are inevitably going to be expressed. In general it is a time of high stress for everybody. This is normal and expected.
Unfortunately, it’s getting a little crazy out there. The Master Executive Council (MEC) has been made aware of various messages, texts, emails and social media posts that could be construed as threatening, harassing, intimidating or even just plain mean. We know tensions are high but we just can’t have this happening. The MEC is not intending to be paternalistic, but we feel this is a good opportunity to remind everybody of the AFA-CWA Mutual Respect Policy and AFA Alaska Social Media Guidelines.
AFA-CWA Mutual Respect Policy and AFA Alaska Social Media Guidelines
Please remember that whether TA2 passes or fails, we’re all in this together and there is always the possibility that we’ll have to share the beverage cart someday. The AFA-CWA Mutual Respect Policy and the AFA Alaska Social Media Guidelines are posted at afaalaska.org as resources. Here are a few relevant excerpts:
“The use of language that is libelous, discriminatory, threatening, or harassing is strictly prohibited. If you would not make the statement in person to someone you respect, modify it accordingly.” [AFA Alaska Social Media Guidelines]
“AFA-CWA is committed to creating and maintaining a working environment based on dignity and mutual respect. This should apply to meetings, socializing and all the events around AFA-CWA activities. [Note from the MEC: this also applies to social media outlets.]
What we ask of you:
- To treat everybody, including all AFA-CWA members, leaders and activists, as well as AFA-CWA staff members and meeting guests, with respect and dignity.
- To make absolutely sure your own behavior does not cause offense or misunderstanding and be open to comments from others that you may have caused offense.
- To think before you make personal remarks.
- To accept responsibility for challenging all forms of unacceptable and offensive behavior, and for upholding personal dignity.” [AFA-CWA Mutual Respect Policy]
Be respectful of the Negotiating Committees
Regardless of your opinions of TA1 or TA2, be respectful of the hard work and countless long hours put in by our Negotiating Committees over the past few years. Although they are partially compensated for their time, this is simply to minimize the impact to their personal finances whenever they are off the line working on your behalf. Please be mindful that at the end of the day these are essentially volunteer positions and be thankful for their service.
As many of our Flight Attendants know, historically we have faced challenging negotiation periods. During those times the strain on all of our Members is significant. Just as we have persevered in the past, we will continue to do so in the future.
In solidarity,
Your MEC—Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Yvette Gesch, Becky Strachan, Laura Masserant, Cathy Gwynn, Sandra Morrow and Stephen Couckuyt
