In response to the announced deal to end the 35-day government shutdown, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Sara Nelson released the following statement:
"It is wonderful news that the there is a deal to end this senseless shutdown, and the lockout of nearly a million Americans from their jobs or their paychecks. This never should have happened and it must never happen again. It should be abundantly clear to the American people that federal workers are not faceless bureaucrats. They are patriotic, dedicated, public servants who keep us safe and make it possible for our country to run. We must NEVER put them in the crosshairs of political disagreement. Flight Attendants cannot express our gratitude deeply enough for the incredible people in federal sector jobs who work every day for our country.
"To all Americans: if there is anything this shutdown has taught us, it should be that labor rights matter. We must work together to improve rights for working Americans. Our democracy depends on it."
"Thank you to all of the AFA-CWA members who made calls and took part in solidarity actions across the country. We are always stronger together and better together."