Support CUPE members trapped in Dominican Republic

Sisters, brothers and friends,

For over four months, two of our members have been held in the Dominican Republic without charge, in fear for their lives, simply for doing their duty and following the law.

On April 5, flight attendants Christina Carello and Alexander Rozov – members of CUPE Local 4059 – were detained along with the rest of their crew after discovering and reporting suspected contraband on their plane in the Dominican Republic.

They followed their duty to the letter, and aviation experts say the crew’s actions likely averted an air disaster due to the weight and location of the contraband. Instead of receiving thanks for their actions, Christina and Alexander and the rest of their crew have been denied their freedom, and their rights to justice and safety. Dominican prosecutors want them held in prison for up to 12 months as an investigation drags on.

For four long months, CUPE’s Airline Division has been part of an ongoing effort to help bring Christina and Alexander home. Today, we are calling on our broader CUPE membership to join this effort. Together, we must step up the pressure on Dominican authorities and on the Canadian government.

Christina and Alexander are part of our union family, and we must do what we can to bring them home to their lives and their loved ones in Canada.

Each of us can do our part and make a difference. We are urging all members and locals to visit the website to support Christina and Alexander today.

In solidarity,

Mark Hancock
MARK HANCOCK
National President

CANDACE RENNICK
National Secretary-Treasurer