Let's Talk About The Campaign To Stop Outrageous Checks to American Execs
Posted Jul 20, 2009
In this premiere edition of TWU Talks, TWU President, Jim Little, tells us we don't have to just take it. There are times to partner with American--like our union did with the ASAP program to enhance safety and security standards--and there are times to take action, Little explained.
This past Spring, our union challenged AMR management on executive compensation and used traditional and new tactics to send a clear message: "Stop Outrageous Checks to American Execs!" The union developed an animated online game, launched online advertising on Google and reached out to social networks, Our efforts generated hundreds of positive news stories about TWU across the country and raised serious questions about AMR's executive compensation packages. Partially as a result of our campaign, The Ft. Worth Star-Telegram called for changes in executive compensation at AMR.
Equally important, the union's campaign galvanized our members who marched in unison to the AMR headquarters chanting "Share the Gain!" "We're Fed Up!" and "Cancel the Checks!" Many of those images and voices were captured for TV news audiences.
TWU initiated the "Stop AmerExec Check" campaign and took these actions because we want a fair contract for all our members at American and Eagle and we want to put an end to the company's unfair compensation practices. Right now we are in federal mediation for new agreements and, given the uncertain economic realities in commercial aviation, need to be prepared. We will be gearing up over the next few months and it is critical that you stay informed and engaged. Register for future installments of TWU Talks and find out what your union has to say.