Dear Supporter
Last week there was a mass deportation of 29 people by charter flight to Jamaica.
As you know commercial flights are frequently used to deport people. I am attaching a report which informs that a Trade Union, the International Transport Federation (ITF) has called on commercial airlines to not participate in deportations. It is disappointing that despite Virgin refusing to deport people on their flights that British Airways has not done the same. As this report sets out, it is, a voluntary process and they do not need to participate.
Pilots who work for commercial airlines are also the ones that fly the charter flight mass deportations also and it would be good if the pilots union BALPA and other unions representing workers operating flights, such as Cabin Crew would also join the ITF call. As well as the devestating impact on those deported and the families they are torn apart from there are negative impacts on passengers & staff. One cabin crew member ended their career after witnessing the horrific death of Jimmy Mubenga. Airlines as employers also have a duty of care to their own employees too.
It is of concern that 5 British Airways pilots who were also union representatives for BALPA , including at the most senior level, have been suspended for racism abuse.
The current hostile environment, Windrush scandal and inhumane deportations are racist in intent and impact and those enabling or actively participating need to be held accountable for their actions.
Yesterday Lesbian & Gays Support the Migrants, an organisation who have also been campaigning on these issues did a Valentine's Action which you can read here;
Valentine's Day Tinder messages aim to stop deportations
I would be grateful if you could also sign this petition initiated by the Public and Commercial Services Union.
Petition: Conduct an Independent Public Inquiry into the Windrush Scandal
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/234560
Regards
Zita