Corliss King, a member of Transport Workers Union of America Local 556 and Illinois State AFL-CIO board member, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her journey as an "accidental lobbyist," her efforts to change labor laws for flight attendants and her work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the aviation industry.
King's path to union activism began unexpectedly when her husband fell ill, highlighting the challenges faced by flight attendants in using sick leave to care for their family members. This personal experience led her to challenge existing laws in Illinois, ultimately resulting in a change that allows flight attendants to use sick leave for family care. King’s persistence and grassroots approach to lobbying, which she dubbed "guerrilla" tactics, involved showing up at the state capitol in uniform to draw attention to the issue. Her efforts not only succeeded in Illinois but inspired similar initiatives in other states, demonstrating individual union members' power in effecting legislative change.
As the founder of the Union for Black Aviation Unionists (UBAU), King emphasized the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion efforts in the aviation industry. She addressed the current pushback against DEI initiatives and argued that the relatively recent passage of civil rights legislation in her lifetime underscores the continued importance of these efforts. King stressed that the demand for fair treatment is not about seeking advantages but achieving a level playing field.
King's consulting firm, Corliss King Consulting, aims to empower individuals and organizations to navigate the legislative process and effect change. Drawing from her own experiences, she works with unions to understand "how to union" in the current political climate. King's approach emphasizes the importance of grassroots efforts and the power of personal stories in lobbying, challenging the notion that only those with deep pockets can influence legislation.
To hear more about King's inspiring journey and insights on union activism, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast.