Airline Employees 4 Health Freedom

Airline Employees 4 Health Freedom is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization in the United States, established by airline industry professionals. The organization focuses on defending the health freedoms and religious liberties of airline employees, particularly in response to COVID-19 vaccination mandates.

Background

The group was formed by airline employees who opposed the COVID-19 vaccination mandates implemented by their employers, with a primary focus on United Airlines. These employees argued that such mandates infringed on their rights to religious and medical autonomy. Sherry Walker, a United Airlines pilot, co-founded the organization and has been vocal about its mission to protect employees' freedoms[1][2].

Activities

Airline Employees 4 Health Freedom supports employees across the airline industry who have faced discrimination or termination due to their vaccine status. The organization has been involved in several legal battles, including the high-profile case Sambrano v. United Airlines. This case led to significant legal challenges regarding reasonable accommodations under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)[2][3].

The organization also collaborates with other airlines' employees, such as those from Hawaiian Airlines and Kalitta Air, to combat vaccine-related discrimination. It assists individuals navigating the reasonable accommodation process and advocates for legislation that protects employees' rights[2][3].

Legal Efforts

Airline Employees 4 Health Freedom has been instrumental in filing lawsuits and amicus briefs in notable cases. In Sambrano v. United Airlines, they challenged United's vaccine mandate policies, arguing that the airline did not adequately provide religious or medical accommodations. The organization has also supported cases like Groff v. DeJoy and Brown v. Alaska, contributing to broader discussions on religious and medical freedoms[2].

Advocacy

Beyond legal action, the organization lobbies for legislation that supports employees' rights to bodily autonomy and religious freedom. They express disappointment when legislative measures that aim to restore employment for terminated pilots fail, as seen in recent FAA reauthorization debates[3].

Airline Employees 4 Health Freedom emphasizes the importance of collective action, highlighting that employees are stronger when advocating together rather than individually[2].