First, them changing uniform standards in a violation of 24(e) of the contract, which requires them to let ALPA know first, consider their opinion, and then give the pilots six months notice before the change takes effect.
Secondly, it's a small but real change to status quo during Section 6.
Thirdly, and most importantly where potential discipline is involved, it's a violation of protected speech under the National Labor Relations Act. The courts have previously ruled that wearing small items to demonstrate solidarity with fellow workers - even if not union-issued - is a protected act.
I think we should ALL wear the ALPA-produced lanyards the moment we get them. Hell, they just made all of our "fun" lanyards illegal anyways. What are they going to do, fire us all? If they decide to make an example of someone, he'll get to sit at home a while, go to court a few times, and eventually collect a very big check.
Pretty dumb move on their part. They just admitted being upset by the showing of symbols of unity, while simultaneously moving to unify the whole group.
