(Fort Lauderdale, FL)— Cabin cleaners, skycaps, wheelchair agents, customer service agents, ramp workers and baggage handlers who were set to strike Tuesday and Wednesday decided to postpone the planned work stoppage in light of the horrific tragedy which unfolded today at the Brussels Airport and subway. Instead airport workers will be coming together to pay their respects at a series of candle light vigils and memorial gatherings.

“We send our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in today’s tragic attacks in Brussels,” said Eberle Anglade a cabin cleaner at FLL. “We also send messages of support and solidarity to the Brussels Airport workers. We are unfortunately all too aware of the risks and dangers that workers at airports and other major transportation hubs face.”

Airport workers were ready to draw attention to the myriad issues they face at the workplace, including health and safety violations, unfair labor practices, and inadequate training. They are organizing as part of a national movement for better jobs, higher standards and improved airports.

In lieu of work site actions, airport workers will be coming together to pay their respects, to the victims, and heroes of the Brussels attacks, at a series of candle light vigils and memorial gatherings. As workers at highly sensitive airports around the country, they are well aware of the dangers and risks that unfortunately continue to be a threat. Workers are gathering together in the spirit of solidarity and with the vision of a better world in their hearts.

WHAT: Workers solidarity vigil with victims of Brussels attack.
WHO: Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness, FLL airport workers, community supporters.
WHERE: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Terminal 2, outside Departures Level (btw 2 & 3)
WHEN: Tuesday, March 22 at 8:30pm.

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Around the country, contracted airport workers are coming together in Airport Workers United, a movement of employees and their allies, raising their voices for $15 and union rights to make our airports safe and secure for passengers, employees and our communities. By sticking together, speaking out for change, and going on strike, these employees have won wage increases in Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, N.J., Minneapolis, Boston, Philadelphia, and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. More than 70,000 workers nationwide have either received wage increases or other improvements, including healthcare, paid sick leave and worker retention policies as a result of the campaign.