God of mercy, God of Justice, God who transforms our hearts,” intoned Rev. John Helmiere, convening Alaska Airlines’ annual shareholder meeting with a prayer. The 200 shareholders bowed in silence, not yet aware that the twelve minister-shareholders before them had assembled to commit an act of corporate apostasy.
The prayer veered sharply: “God, we ask that you give our leaders the wisdom to do right by their workers, do right by their community… save us from the snares of selfishness.” Corporate executives sat stunned, not quite comprehending how the annual showcase of their company’s record profits had just been hijacked.
And that was just the start. For the next ninety minutes, airport workers led chants demanding recognition of their union. Community activists interrupted the proceedings to lead a debate about poverty wages at the main airports used by Alaska Airlines. A church leader led a rousing spiritual song:...
