4.04.23 – Human Rights

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

Human Rights

Across the nation, we are seeing an uptick in anti-gay, anti-trans and outright attacks on the racial progress that has happened since the civil rights movement. When these attitudes and policies change, they impact not only our members, but our members’ families, friends, colleagues, and communities. Unions have been at the forefront of all progress in this nation and APFA is committed to standing in the gaps with anyone whose civil liberties are threatened. Whether it is the limiting uniform standards and language at American Airlines, or the legislation that is being passed in various states, including where we have crew bases, we want you to know that we see you, we support you, and we will speak out at every level of government where those in power seek to limit your ability to show up as your authentic self.

As Flight Attendants we have fought long and hard against discriminatory policies and laws that excluded us based on race, gender, and marital status just to name a few, so we know firsthand how laws and policies can impact the quality of life one can live. We cannot sit idly by while our colleagues and members of their families are being attacked by their own government. We encourage you to utilize your voice by getting in contact with your local, state, and federal representatives to let them know that bigotry doesn’t fly and by staying informed of what bills are being introduced and being advanced into law. Below you will find a links to the ACLU website that outlines what’s happening across our nation.

LGBTQ Issues:
https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights

Women’s Rights:
https://www.aclu.org/issues/womens-rights

Racial Justice:
https://www.aclu.org/issues/racial-justice

Different Abilities Rights:
https://www.aclu.org/issues/disability-rights

Voting Rights:
https://www.aclu.org/issues/voting-rights

While this doesn’t address every inequity that is happening within our nation, we hope that this message will activate each of you to help us create a safer more inclusive environment for those of our co-workers that live at the intersection of one or more marginalized communities. If you or someone you know is experiencing discrimination of any kind in the workplace please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. As always we welcome you to join us during our committee meetings to see how you can get involved in creating change.

In Solidarity,

Chaddrian Calhoun and Rhonda Curtright
APFA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
[email protected]