Hundreds of service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport recently went on strike to protest against what they describe as unlivable wages. The strike kicked off on Monday after AMB and Prospect Airport Services employees cast ballots last week in favor of the decision.
Since the strike began, it has drawn attention to the challenges the workers consistently face, such as assisting wheelchair-bound passengers, disposing of trash, and cleaning the airplane’s interior. While the protest occurred just a few days before Thanksgiving, organizers say the move was deliberate and aims to highlight how essential the workers are, especially during holidays.
Some workers, who typically earn around $12.50 to $19 an hour, say the wages aren’t enough to cover necessities like transportation, food, and housing. The Service Employees International Union (SEIU), which is overseeing the strike, stated that the pay is well below the livable wage of the city, even for a single person.
“We’re on strike today because this is our last resort. We can’t keep living like this,” ABM cabin cleaner Priscilla Hoyle said in a statement. “We’re taking action because our families can’t survive.”
Additionally, union officials also shared that the workers on strike have plans to hold two public demonstrations.
“In place of the Thanksgiving meal that many of the workers won’t be able to afford later this week,” the officials said. “Airport service workers make holiday travel possible by keeping airports safe, clean, and running. Despite their critical role in the profits that major corporations enjoy, many airport service workers must work two to three jobs to make ends meet.”
Nonetheless, the strike is expected to interrupt travels at the airport despite officials anticipating record-breaking numbers for the Thanksgiving holiday. As a result, AMB says they will put necessary measure in place to minimize the impact. .
