Companies as "advocates" for employees

I felt sickened when I heard this story reported on NPR this morning. After all that has happened over the years, and especially recently (with companies like Enron), it's amazing to me that anyone could say with a straight face that a corporation is the "best advocate" for their employees. Har dee har har. If that wasn't so absurd, it would be funny. Corporations make money, period. If employees' interests are ever served, it's only a happy coincidence. When push comes to shove, the employees will go under the bus, figuratively or sometimes even literally. Not that I think unions are always better - they have their own problems, but employees, especially low status employees, are delusional if they think corporations will protect them.

And that doesn't even address the rather odd conclusion that 60% of the flight attendants "rejected" union representation - they didn't vote at all. There are a lot of reasons that people don't vote, and some of them are pretty nefarious . . .

http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/05/delta-flight-attendants-turn-d.html

Wed, May 28, 2008
Delta flight attendants turn down union
by Terry Maxon

Flights attendants at Delta Air Lines have decided not to have the Association of Flight Attendants/Communication Workers of America represent them. Delta said Wednesday that more than 60 percent of eligible flight attendants "rejected representation" by the AFA. Apparently, they did it by not voting at all.

Said Delta CEO Richard Anderson: "We are pleased that Delta's flight attendants clearly believe that our unique culture and direct relationship are worth preserving. Delta continues to be the best advocate for its people, and our employees recognize the benefits of working together to enhance their careers and drive successful results for themselves and our company."