Originally Posted by MEMFO4Ever

Nice attempt to calm the storm, but it has been brewing steadily. Section 29 is an item of severe contention for a lot of people, especially in light of the current infighting. I have consistently placed the elimination of this clause as the number one priority of the negotiating committee and I know that I am not the only one.

No one is suggesting a mass exodus from ALPA, but without leverage the union leadership (local and national) can and does ignore the wishes of the membership to suit their needs. There is no incentive for them to respond since the worst that can happen is recall and a return to the line. Instead they hold the very existence of someone's livelyhood over their head, expect them to participate fully, and are surprised when they do not. Holding the pursestrings puts the leadership on notice that if people don't like what is happening they can 'vote with their feet' and take their money with them. It is the American way, works for business, and should be well within our rights. Bottom line, we were sold a bill of goods.

Granted, the possibility of national endorsing a membership-approved TA removing agency shop is slim, but if it comes to that it might be time for torches and pitchforks. In this game the only thing that talks is money and since our 'voice' is a virtual certainty, loyalty to the customer (us) is easily manipulated to fulfill personal and institutional agendas contrary to the membership's benefit.