Boeing asks employees to sign holiday cards rather than union card

CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) - Boeing is sending more than just well wishes in its holiday greetings. The airplane giant is asking employees keep Boeing South Carolina union-free.

The International Association of Machinists has been pushing to unionize BSC for years. Boeing officials have repeatedly said a union is not in the best interest of their team.

The radio spot urges employees not to sign a Union Authorization Card.

"The same IAM union organizers that almost closed our South Carolina 787...are back. They'll say anything in attempt to disrupt our progress...this season the only card we hope you'll be signing is a holiday card."

The IAM has ramped up its campaign for unionization. In September, it put up billboards. According to the union, it needs at least 900 signatures before a vote to unionize could be held. While communication director Frank Larkin would not disclose how many signatures have been collected, he said they are drawing closer to filing for an election.

In an email sent to Boeing employees on Monday, Vice President Jack Jones said:

"Make no mistake, a Union Authorization Card is a legal document. Signing a card isn't just so you can get more information about the union. Teammates who sign authorization cards are stating that you hereby authorize the IAM to act as my collective bargaining agent with the company for wages, hours and working conditions. Your signature can be used by the union well into the future – for 12 to 18 months. It is like signing a "blank check."

Let's not forget that this is the same union that tried to shut down 787 final assembly and delivery in South Carolina by filing charges against Boeing with the NLRB in March 2010. And remember, you have the right to not sign a card, and you have the right to tell anyone to please leave you alone. Those rights are protected by federal law."

IAM officials say signatures on union authorization cards are valid for one year.

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