What Next | Daily News and Analysis The Flight Attendant Who Wants You to Go on Strike
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Apr 24, 2025 Sara Nelson, the International President of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, advocates passionately for worker rights and a general strike. She discusses the urgent need for solidarity among labor unions in response to political challenges. Nelson shares her journey from flight attendant to prominent labor activist, emphasizing the power of grassroots organizing. The conversation highlights the impact of past struggles, like the 2019 government shutdown, and explores the potential for unions to unite against modern adversities, calling for clear demands to drive effective change.
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Sara Nelson's Union Start
- Sara Nelson became a flight attendant in 1996 attracted by the job's union-negotiated benefits like pay, health care, and pension.
- She got involved in the union after a company error and was inspired by seasoned flight attendants fighting for contract rights.
Workers' Power in Shutdown
- The 2019 government shutdown revealed workers' power when a few air traffic controllers striking shut down LaGuardia Airport.
- This action forced political response, showing worker solidarity can dictate national agendas away from corporate control.
Strikes Must Be Openly Discussed
- The Trump administration’s attacks on federal workers and their collective bargaining rights threaten unions broadly.
- Fearful union leaders avoid calling strikes, but Sara Nelson urges openly discussing strikes and workers' power.