I've tried to watch this case, since I became aware of it.
Interesting, to say the least.
After losing the initial round, the company offered a payout.
And I am surprised he didn't (take) or try negotiate a better settlement.
But, he appealed it.
What still leaves me scratching my head;
How does a 27 year employee, and 17 year Steward.... get himself in to this predicament ??
It can only be from lack of experience, in a small center.
-Bug-
I have followed the case as well, and agree in part, a very small part.
I would be surprised if RA doesn't look back and see a few things he could have done differently.
What I see as a much bigger set of variables than your perceived "lack of experience" in a "small center", is the undeniable fact that he was fighting the Company, while his Local was selling him out.
What Betty did was irreprehensible.
As you know, in my Local we had a heretic.
Let's call him Sam.
Sam was fired numerous times, for a laundry list of infractions, some trumped up, some self inflicted.
Without exception, despite his narcissistic ways, political opposition, and destructive actions against the Local, our BA's defended him vigilantly and always got him back to work....every time.
In the end, Sam succeeded in unseating these agents and officers, to the undeniable detriment of the Local.
I know for a fact that not one of those agents regret representing Sam to the fullest, because that was their job.
RA was not afforded proper representation, while pursuiting his right to oppose a contract and run for local office.
He was subsequently unduly persecuted by the Company, while being sold out by his Local.
I have questioned his resolve as a so-called "martyr", labeling him instead a victim, fighting for what was his.
This still being a noble mission.
Today, I'm proud to acknowledge RA's selfless appeal for what it is.
I man trying to further and protect all of our rights, at a significant cost to himself.
The true definition of a martyr.
Thanks RA
~Bbbl~™