Unfair Treatment in the Workplace:
Its Damaging Effect to Members and Their Productivity
by Larry Pike
I have just been reviewing the company policy on harassment and
it has brought up some strong memories. They are both good
and bad. Good, because they have reminded me of my path
to the union presidency. Bad, because they bring up some
disturbing feelings about how business is often conducted in the
workplace.
I became interested in union activism in the early 1990s when
I felt that I was singled out for standing up for what I believed
was right. Because I spoke out about a workplace incident,
I was asked to constantly report my movements (through AOI documents)
around the workplace. I was forced to keep a paper trail
that took up a lot of time and energy that could have been better
used performing my mechanic's duties. I spent precious time
just keeping all this documentation when I could have been performing
maintenance that I was being paid to do. Eventually, this
documentation did serve a purpose in getting the unfair treatment
to cease.
What happened to me made me pay closer attention to the union
and how it works to better the workplace for its members. I
wanted to be a part of the solution rather than just complain about
the problems. So, I became active within Local 567. First,
I ran for shop steward and was elected by my peers. Then,
I ran for Executive Board and was elected. Now, I am proud
to serve as President.
This sequence of Union activism has made me very aware of how
the members of Local 567 often have some tough hurdles in the workplace. I
see members frequently face the kinds of treatment that I was subjected
to. It is important that we all know the company policy
regarding harassment and are careful to define and report instances
where there is unfair treatment in the workplace. It is
also important that we all understand the role that the union can
play in bringing incidents to light and aiding members in the process
of halting unfair treatment. Documentation is vital. Reporting
is vital. Securing union representation is vital.
But, most of all Local 567 members must stand up to unfair treatment
and bring it to light. There are procedures and policies
in place to identify, report and correct unfair treatment. The
union can and will help you navigate your way through these procedures
to stop any unjust persecution.
My experience made me understand and truly appreciate the importance
of unionism.
United we stand. Divided we fall.
"Restore and More"
by Larry Pike
The membership of Local 567 has spoken. In a loud and clear voice, members have set unity in motion. In the recent election we experienced one of the best voter turnouts in years. That fact alone shows that our membership is enthusiastic about playing an important role in the future of this Union and of American Airlines.
I want to personally thank every voter for electing a board that is united and committed to serving the membership. People have been congratulating me for getting elected, but I think it is more important for me to congratulate you, the members, for electing a group of officers who can work together in a united effort. In the coming months, the board and I are determined to bring enhanced benefits and compensation to the membership. "Restore and More" is not just a slogan for us—it's a pledge that we will work toward every day.
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