2.24.14 – (LAA) – Letter from the APFA President to AZ Governor Brewer

 

February 24, 2014

The Honorable Janice K. Brewer
Governor, State of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Dear Governor Brewer:

On behalf of the Flight Attendants of the new American Airlines, many of whom live and work in Arizona, I write to urge you to veto Senate Bill 1062. As you know, the new American has deep roots in Arizona. Many of my new colleagues have been working for Phoenix-based airlines throughout their careers. After hearing from many of these Flight Attendants and considering the letter and the spirit of the proposed legislation, I must insist in the strongest possible terms that you veto the bill.

I understand that you have heard similar appeals from various members of the business community in Arizona. From their perspective, this legislation jeopardizes the state’s ability to foster economic growth or even maintain relative stability. Of course, that is a strong argument for Flight Attendants whose jobs depend on full planes coming in and out of PHX, and I echo it. However, I would be remiss if I failed to identify the vastly more important contention: that this legislation represents an assault on basic civil rights.

The Association of Professional Flight Attendants was formed in 1977 with a singular focus on protecting and improving the livelihoods of American Airlines’ Flight Attendants. In our endeavors to advance the Flight Attendant profession, our union has often worked to enact societal change. Our society has made incredible gains in forty years and these advancements have allowed us to celebrate the diversity of our membership. This bill is a step backwards.

What we need in America is more respect, acceptance, and inclusiveness. We do not need an improved legal defense for discrimination.

On behalf of Flight Attendants, our children, parents, friends, and passengers I respectfully request that you veto SB 1062.

Sincerely,
Laura Glading
President, Association of Professional Flight Attendant