Road to Success
People consume information in different ways, so District 141 Communications takes a layered approach to campaign messaging.
District 141 Communications, with input from Member focus groups, created more than 175 flyers, trifolds, postcards, palm cards, and comparisons throughout all of the organizing campaigns.
District 141 websites became the communication network of the district in 2009. With 24/7 updates, graphics, videos, and interviews, these sites compete with no other.
We recorded, photographed, and interviewed more than 5,000 Members throughout the campaigns, in almost every city where we represent Members.
Music Video
Music is a way to communicate with Members on an emotional level. The organization never used it before. The PCE Music Video, “I Will Remain,” created interest, passion and debate. District 141 music videos have become the heartbeat of our district. Music helps us connect with each other and rally around ideas that mean the most.
The End of the Anti-Social Union
District 141 operates multiple Facebook pages and a YouTube channel. We’ve filmed thousands of videos featuring Members and leaders delivering information. Uniquely, District 141 used Facebook target ads to successfully reach Teamster members, while remaining on a tight budget.
Nearly Doubled
Reversing a decade-long decline in membership, District 141 nearly doubled in size over the last three years. We now represent more than 30,000 Members at United Airlines alone.
The official publication of District 141 is now an educational tool and a forum for comparing contracts and company policy during organizing campaigns. The Messenger’s new, longer shelf life is designed to keep it in the homes of Members, so others can learn about our union.
We advertised on four billboards in Chicago and Houston. The artwork changed several times to identify campaign shifts and voting periods.
Giving brand identity to District 141 creates identity and a visual mission.
Fundraising
Labor unions, like some church groups, refer to Members as “Brothers and Sisters.” At no time was the spirit more evident than when District 141 approached the Grand Lodge, Local Lodges, and Machinist Councils to fund the campaigns. District 141 uses the United Labor Bank—a union bank—and they gave a line of credit for $500,000. Yes, they gave us a line of credit on our Organizing Campaign Plan! We’ve already paid it back.
Success
District 141 and its Members rose to every challenge. We overcame every obstacle. We survived. Now, we’re hungry for our contracts that are way overdue.
In Memory ...
We still remember our Brothers and Sisters at District 143, Northwest Airlines, who lost everything in the Delta merger, including their union and their contract. We also remember District 142 Flight Attendants at Continental Airlines who lost their union.
District 141 is getting stronger every day. When you are ready to rise up, we will rise up with you.