7.24.23 – French American Heritage Month

French American Heritage Month

Monday, July 24, 2023

In honor of French American Heritage Month, we would like for you to join us in getting to know Flight Attendant Jean Dominique Voisin and the fight spirit being French granted him.

“Four years ago, a French guy with broken English was taken from Paris to NYC, with a dream and two bags. This guy was me…and I still remember everything. The crew, the smells, the stress, and the excitement. I remember looking at this crew member who was the same height as me, telling myself I could definitely see myself being a flight attendant. It became a reality when I was hired in 2016, and 10 years later, after my big move, on the anniversary day I worked the same flight. When I envisioned being a flight attendant, it was this is where I wanted to work, because of the same flight that brought me here. Being French in America had, at first some language barriers, then cultural shock. I learned what it was to be French after moving to the United States. When you live in your country of birth, you take it all for granted. But living abroad made me step back and reflect, then appreciate our philosophy on food, love, and especially our revolutionary spirit. What I enjoy most about working here is meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures. I had some of the most amazing conversations and learned so much. Meeting some people like me just came with a dream of possibilities.”

As we honor French American Heritage Month, we would be remised to not make further mention of the revolutionary spirit exhibited by the French population. As we prepare for a strike vote, I encourage us all to stand in strength with one another and remember that wings truly unite us.

As the Diversity Equity and Inclusion committee chairperson, I must stress to each of you that being included in our efforts to gain a contract is terribly important. Unions have long stood in solidarity with the working class against corporations and managers who profit from their employees’ hard work. Let’s be frank. Record profits translate to underpaid staff.

American Airlines management love to put an image of being an amazing workplace where inclusion is the name of the game. American Airlines continues to tout the concept that culture is the competitive edge. It’s time for management to put their money where their mouth is and give us a contract that honors our contribution to the success of this company and truly includes us in the “team.”

Please ensure your voice is included in the conversation by checking to ensure your dues are current, your contact information is up to date. You’re staying informed with the most recent and accurate negotiations information by visiting APFA.org.

Let’s unify our diverse voices and let management know We Are Ready!

In Solidarity,

Chaddrian Calhoun
APFA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Chair
[email protected]