Ladies and Gentlemen:

Once again the holidays are upon us. Football season is in full swing, holiday lights have begun to appear on busy shopping streets, friends and family are scheduling holiday parties and sweaters have been moved to the front of the closet.  Times were, when as Flight Attendants, we would mark the advent of the holiday season with an increase in air travel; but the growing reality now is full aircraft throughout the entire year.

This week, as we prepare to celebrate the great American tradition of giving thanks for the abundance in our lives, I reflect on how historically the United States has been a place where different people and unfamiliar cultures have come together, worked together and grown stronger together, not in spite of our differences, but rather because of them.

As Americans, and also as Flight Attendants, we personify the very best qualities of both our nation and our profession. Although we may come from all parts of the world, and we may have other holidays that are important to us as well, as Americans we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, which is as unique and wonderful a holiday as is our community.

Regardless of where we reside however, we all celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving each time we put on our uniform, prepare for our day and go to work. We support each other throughout our careers and collectively take great pride in our work, and the care of our passengers.

Thanksgiving is a part of who we are and what we do every single day, and illustrates the spirit of hope and optimism we celebrate in all aspects of our work. We are thankful of the opportunities we have achieved this year; including ratification of a new Contract and beginning Joint Contract Negotiations.

We also look forward to additional opportunities, which will be afforded to United Flight Attendants when United’s merger is completed in the future; including working alongside our Sisters and Brothers at Continental and Continental Micronesia. In reflection, we have accomplished so many things this year, which are a direct result of our dedication and hard work, for which we are thankful. As we pause on this day of Thanksgiving, let us both be proud of what we have accomplished together through our Solidarity and resolute on our continuing drive to do better tomorrow than we have done today.

However you celebrate Thanksgiving, be it with family and friends over dinner, through service to your community, church or organization or onboard the aircraft, I wish you a cheerful and memorable holiday.

In Solidarity,

Greg Davidowitch,President
United Master Executive Council