Article:

Charlotte Douglas International Airport workers have taken to the streets in a strike on Thursday morning as the Memorial Day travel rush begins. The strike began at around 5:30 a.m. with airport workers setting up a picket line at the arrivals level of CLT airport, specifically between doors 3 and 4.

Following this, a second picket line was formed at 8 a.m. at the corner of Wilkinson Blvd. and N. Josh Birmingham Parkway. The day of protest continued with a rally and press conference at 1:30 p.m. at the same location.

The workers are demanding that airline service providers commit to respecting, protecting, and paying fair wages to airport service workers. Many employees expressed their grievances about their current financial situations, stating that despite their essential role in keeping airports safe, clean, and running smoothly, they are struggling to make ends meet.

Lisoley Gutierrez, an ABM cabin cleaner servicing American Airlines planes, shared her story of having to work three jobs just to support her family. She emphasized that without workers like her, planes would not be able to take off, yet they are not being compensated fairly for their efforts. Other workers echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the fact that they are often forced to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet.

Lashonda Barber, who works for ABM as a trash truck driver at the airport, stressed the importance of her role in ensuring that flights depart on time. However, she revealed that she, too, is struggling to pay her bills and support her family. Workers like Barber are calling for a new union contract that would address the issue of low wages.

The workers' protest aimed to make their grievances visible to those traveling for the Memorial Day weekend. However, due to restrictions, only ten protesters were allowed outside the terminal at a time, leading to a rotation system among the workers.

As news of the strike spread, the airport was approached for a statement in response to the workers' demands. Channel 9 has reached out to the airport for comment and is awaiting a response.

The strike at Charlotte Douglas International Airport serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by airport service workers who play a vital role in the smooth functioning of the airline industry. Their call for fair wages reflects their dedication and commitment to their work and their need for financial stability in order to support their families.