Southwest Airlines Community

MLK Day is a timely opportunity to reflect on the life, work, and ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His legacy has had a lasting impact on many, including his advocacy of inclusion and equity through the Civil Rights Movement.     We asked some of our Employees, “What Does MLK’s Legacy Mean to You?” and this is what they had to say: “Dr. King’s legacy means that I, nor my children, or generations to come, will ever have to doubt their SIGNIFICANCE to the progress or betterment of this country or the world.” – Sherrica C. “As a black man born in the 1960s, I was too young to understand the troubling times. However, learning about Dr. King's mission to ensure justice and equality was afforded to all men and women without regard for color, ethnicity, or religion proved to be a driving force that has allowed me and my family to see better days from a different lens than our forefathers. Dr King's legacy and vision of equity lives on as long there is injustice toward any person. I am proud to say my fraternity brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, incorporated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr started a movement that thrives today because social injustice deprives us all the opportunity to reach our potential in life.” – Eric M. “Dr. Martin Luther King has been an inspiration to me to pursue my goals and dreams, despite challenges and setbacks. His quote, ‘If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving,’ has been my guiding compass to keep moving forward.” – Jessica V. “Dr. King's legacy constantly reminds me that my skin color does differentiate me from any other person and that it is perfectly acceptable to be Black and proud of it. It emphasizes that I have a right to exist in this country and pursue my dreams like every other US citizen. Dr. King's tenacity, patience, and leadership allows me to have a seat at the table and have a career that would not have been possible 70 years ago. Working for this airline and being able to travel across the world freely, I can see his impact and how it has influenced other countries. It allows others to know that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. I am deeply grateful for his impact and it is my job along with all others to continue the work and keep his legacy alive.” – Milton J. “Pursuing what's justice in the midst of adversity. Standing firm on a dream till everyone can see it.” – Isela B. “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy of fighting for civil rights is an inspiration to many, and to me, it reminds me to try to stand up for what is right, be empathetic to others, and never give up.” – Jones Y. “Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy is synonymous with the ongoing struggle for civil rights, equality, and social justice for all, leaving an indelible mark on American history and influencing movements for justice globally.” – Kris S. “Dr. King's legacy speaks to the responsibility that every one of us has to speak out against injustice wherever and whenever we see it! Dr. King said, "He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it." His words are still relevant today as injustice and oppression continue to run rampant in our nation. Take time to reflect—will you speak up or remain silent? History is watching.” – Lynn H. “Endless possibilities. With unity we can achieve anything.” – Algena W. One of the best ways you can honor Dr. King’s legacy is through acts of service, which is demonstrated daily by our Employees as they showcase our legendary Hospitality and show concern, respect, and a caring attitude to each other as well as our Customers. ... View more

  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. frequently spoke about the power of community service. He lived his life serving others and referred to service as “the highest human virtue.” So it’s no surprise that MLK Day is the only federal holiday that is also designated by Congress as a national day of service. One of the best ways you can honor Dr. King’s legacy is through acts of service as they provide a meaningful impact on communities.   Southwest Airlines’ Community Outreach partner of more than a decade, Points of Light, is a global volunteerism and service organization whose mission is to ensure that people feel empowered to act on their unique desire to stand up and say, “I can help.” Southwest is a member of their Corporate Service Council and supports the organization through donated travel.   At Southwest, we strive to not only represent but also support the diverse communities that we serve. Employees have the opportunity to put their Heart in Action and make an impact through volunteerism, acts of kindness, and giving back by getting involved in organizations like Points of Light. This demonstrates our Culture of “Service and LUV” and putting People first. For inspiration on how you can celebrate MLK Day and support our communities, visit Points of Light’s website.     We believe that engaging in community service moves us closer to Dr. King’s dream to tackle society’s greatest challenges by bridging barriers and strengthening communities to create a better future.     ... View more

We’ve enjoyed celebrating Women’s History Month by highlighting the contributions of the incredible women at Southwest Airlines who are making an impact—on our great Company and those around them—along the way. We’re closing out the month by sharing the story of Melanie Jones, Sr. Manager in Communications & Outreach.         Melanie started at Southwest over 35 years ago, and shares that her long career can be attributed to the fact that she “loves what she does” and “has never gotten bored”. Melanie’s legacy at Southwest includes not only helping the younger generation, but also her two children who work at Southwest as a Ramp Agent and Flight Attendant. Melanie shares what makes Southwest Airlines such a great place—the People you work with, the work you do, and seeing what we do for our Customers and Employees.   If you missed the first two videos from our Women’s History Month series celebrating the Women of Southwest Airlines, check out Jen’s story and Monique’s story. ... View more

  As we continue our celebration of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting the contributions of the incredible women at Southwest Airlines who are making an impact—on our great Company and those around them—along the way.   Today we’re highlighting Monique Bolden, Inside Sales Associate Cargo, Cargo & Charters. Monique was a longtime Southwest Customer before joining the Southwest Family. She’ll celebrate 20 years in the Army Reserves this September and when she’s not in the office, she’s working to get her MBA. We’re thankful to Monique for her service to our country and the many gifts she brings to Southwest.   Stay tuned for the final video from our Women’s History Month series featuring the talented women of Southwest Airlines as they share their career journeys at Southwest. ... View more

We’re celebrating International Women’s Day by kicking off our month-long video series celebrating the incredible women at Southwest with Aircraft QC Inspector, Jen M. Jen’s advice to women? “Go after what you actually want to do in life… don’t settle!”     This Women’s History Month, we are celebrating the contributions of the incredible women at Southwest Airlines who are making an impact—on our great Company and those around them—along the way. What better way to kick off this series than on International Women’s Day—a global day that recognizes the social, economic, and cultural achievements of women from all areas of life. Today, we’re highlighting the accomplishments of Aircraft QC Inspector, Jen Morgan, who says her worst day at Southwest Airlines is better than her best day anywhere else. Jen shares how falling in love with what she does turned into a 20-year career working in a male-dominated field. Stay tuned for more videos from our Women’s History Month series featuring the talented women of Southwest Airlines as they share their career journeys at Southwest and how to inspire the next generation of women. ... View more

We’re concluding our Black History Month video series celebrating Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with Eureka Drayden, Southwest Airlines Sr. Technology Project Manager. Eureka shares how Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas “chose her” due to an Army scholarship.       What makes Eureka’s HBCU experience so special is that she was also a first-generation college student, leaving her small, rural hometown in Mississippi to become the first person in her family to attend and graduate college. Eureka’s mentorship to current HBCU students allowed her to provide the encouragement they needed to confidently share their ideas. Our partnership with HBCU First gave the students the feedback and guidance to “…step out, take the plunge, and go for it!" In case you missed it, check out our first two videos from our HBCU video series featuring Southwest Airlines Employees Bershun Devereaux and Angela Cunningham. ... View more

In celebration of Black History Month, we’re continuing our month-long video series featuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Angela Cunningham, Sr. Manager, Technology, shares that attending Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana allowed her to have a chance to experience “…the rich heritage and diversity that comes along with attending an HBCU.”         Angela participated as a mentor and judge for the initial Southwest Airlines HBCU First Case Challenge, where she provided guidance to current HBCU students as they presented a business case to Southwest Airlines Leaders. This opportunity allowed Angela to show the students what is possible in terms of experiencing a successful corporate career once they become HBCU graduates. It’s no secret that Historically Black Colleges and Universities produce top talent, and Southwest Airlines is focused on providing opportunities to HBCU students through our partnerships like HBCU First. In case you missed it, check out the first video of our HBCU series featuring Southwest Airlines Employee Bershun Devereaux. ... View more

This Black History Month, Southwest Airlines is honored to highlight Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). Created with the mission of educating Black Americans when other options weren’t available, the rich history of the HBCU experience is still relevant today. We’re kicking off our month-long video series sharing the experiences of Southwest Employees who attended HBCUs, starting with Southwest Sr. Customer Experience Planner Bershun Devereaux, who describes his time at Morris Brown College and Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia as feeling like “family." Identifying HBCU Talent through our Diversity Center of Excellence is a top DEI priority for Southwest. Our Talent Acquisition Team recently partnered with HBCU First, a nonprofit organization that serves students from over 50+ HBCUs to provide students with career support and networking opportunities with companies such as Southwest. Bershun served as a mentor to the HBCU students on behalf of Southwest. HBCU First student participants had the opportunity to participate in a Case Challenge where they presented a business case to Southwest Leaders and Mentors, providing solutions for “Preserving Our Company Culture” in today’s environment. We look forward to continuing our partnership with HBCU First this year as we engage more students for internships and early career opportunities. ... View more

Each year, we celebrate MLK Day as a way to honor the achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. From parades, programs, and even social media posts we nationally recognize the impact and legacy of the late Civil Rights Leader.   We may take one day out of the year to celebrate the life of MLK, but there are so many opportunities to immerse yourself in his legacy all year round. There are several memorials and historic sites in the cities Southwest Airlines serves. Visiting the numerous memorials of MLK serve as a beautiful reminder of the freedom, justice, and equality for which he stood.   Source: https://www.nps.gov/malu/index.htmMartin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta, Georgia Located in the birthplace of MLK, the National Historical Park includes several sites related to his life, including his childhood home, church, and gravesite.   Source: https://www.tnvacation.com/articles/The-National-Civil-Rights-Museum-MemphisNational Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, Memphis, Tennessee The Lorraine Motel where MLK was assassinated is now a complex of museums and historic buildings focused on the civil rights movement.     Source: https://raleighnc.gov/places/dr-martin-luther-king-jr-memorial-gardensDr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Gardens, Raleigh, North Carolina The Memorial Gardens is the first public park in the U.S. dedicated to MLK and the civil rights movement.     Source: https://yerbabuenagardens.com/features/#mlk-memorialThe Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial at Yerba Buena Gardens, San Francisco, California This memorial located in the city’s cultural district features a waterfall and panels inscribed with MLK’s words, poems, and images.     Source: https://www.nps.gov/mlkm/learn/building-the-memorial.htmMartin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Wall, Washington, D.C. This is the most well-known MLK national memorial, located in the National Mall. This memorial includes the Stone of Hope, a granite statue of MLK.   Each memorial provides a unique and immersive way to experience Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life and legacy.   We would love to know more about which memorials you’ve visited, which memorials you plan to visit, and how you choose to honor MLK’s legacy. Share in the comments below. ... View more

Hello Southwest Community!   Community Champions nominations are open once again! If you have a love for Southwest and are an active participant in our Southwest Community we would LUV for you to consider joining our Southwest Community Champions Program!    What does a Community Champion do? Answer questions Author stories Build meaningful relationships What are the Community Champion benefits? Special avatar for your Member profile Southwest swag Annual appreciation event Other fun surprises!   Nominations are open beginning today, Monday July 19 th through Friday February 23 rd . To nominate yourself or someone else, submit your nomination by Friday, July 23 rd for consideration.   You can also visit our Southwest Community Champions page to learn more about the program.   We look forward to receiving your nomination!   @LorrenT and the Southwest Community Team   ... View more

Hello Southwest Community!   It’s that time again! If you love participating in our Southwest Community discussion forum and have a wealth of knowledge for “all things Southwest” we would LUV for you to consider joining our Southwest Community Champions Program!   The Community Champions are active leaders within the Southwest Community who receive recognition for their contributions.   What does a Community Champion do? Answer questions Author stories Build meaningful relationships What are the Community Champion benefits? Special avatar for your Member profile Southwest swag Annual appreciation event Other fun surprises!   Nominations are open beginning today, Monday February 1 st through Friday February 5 th . Check out our Southwest Community Champions page to learn more about the program. To nominate yourself, or someone who you think would be a great fit, submit your nomination by Friday, February 5 th for consideration.   Thanks,   @LorrenT and the Southwest Community Team ... View more

Hello Southwest Community!   Do you love participating in our Southwest Community discussion forum? Are you a wealth of knowledge for “all things Southwest”? Do you love helping others? If you answered “yes” to all of these questions, then please consider joining our Southwest Community Champions Program! The program recognizes the contributions of our most active Community Members.   It's that time again- We are looking for leaders within the Southwest community to answer questions, author stories, and build meaningful relationships. What's in it for you? Our program “perks” include our annual appreciation event, Southwest swag, and a special avatar for your Member profile that let’s everyone know that you are a trusted voice within our community, and other surprises!   Nominations are open beginning today, Monday August 3 through Friday, August 7. Check out our Southwest Community Champions page to learn more about the program. To nominate yourself, or someone who you think would be a great fit, submit your nomination by Friday, August 7 for consideration.   Thanks,   @LorrenT and the Southwest Community Team ... View more

  We know that sometimes you #WannaGetAway and it’s just not possible. To help quench your thirst for wanderlust, check out these conference call backgrounds curated by some of our social brand ambassadors, better known as the Southwest Storytellers, on their latest adventures.     From Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to Kauai, Hawaii- immerse yourself in some of your favorite destinations without leaving the comfort of your home. We even have something for our Aviation Geeks- take flight with our winglet and window seat background options. Whether you’re taking your seat or on the beach, there is a background for everyone!   Using our Southwest backgrounds is super easy: Click on the link to access the Southwest Storyteller Conference Call Images Download your favorite image (or images) to your computer or mobile device  Follow the instructions of your desired conference call app to upload your background image Have fun! ... View more

Hello Southwest Community!    Do you love participating in our Southwest Community discussion forum? Are you a wealth of knowledge for “all things Southwest”? Do you love helping others? If you answered “yes” to all of these questions, then please consider joining our Southwest Community Champions Program! The program recognizes the contributions of our most active Community Members.    We are looking for leaders within the community to answer questions, author stories, and foster meaningful relationships. Program “perks” include our annual appreciation event, Southwest swag, and a special avatar for your Member profile that let’s everyone know that you are a trusted voice within our community.   Are you ready to be a “Champion”? Nominations are open beginning today, Monday October 28 through Friday, November 1. Check out our Southwest Community Champions page to learn more about the program and to nominate yourself, or someone who you think would be a great fit!   We look forward to continue growing our “Community-within-the-Community” and hope you would consider joining us! Submit your nomination form by Friday, November 1 for consideration. ... View more

      Our newest class of Southwest Storytellers recently touched down at our Dallas headquarters to get a dose of all-things Southwest Airlines before embarking on their year-long journey with us as social brand ambassadors. What makes this year’s Storytellers group so special (besides their love for both Southwest and travel) is they were each selected from more than 13,000 entries in the nationwide search we held earlier this year to find the “Next Great Southwest Storyteller”. From professional photographers to nature enthusiasts to family travel gurus, our 2019 Southwest Storytellers include an amazing group of content creators who can’t wait to share their adventures with you! Follow along with the hashtag #SouthwestStorytellers or by following their social media handles.   The 2019 Southwest Storytellers   Name: Alec Basanec, IG: @alec_basanec Hometown: San Diego, California Home Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)   Name: Alicia Fierro, IG: @aesthetiica Hometown: Chicago, Illinois Home Airport: Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)   Name: Jasmine Alley, IG: @jasminealley Hometown: Dallas, Texas Home Airport: Dallas Love Field (DAL)   Name: Kyle Fredrickson, IG: @kyle.fredrickson Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska Home Airport: Eppley Airfield (OMA)   Name: Michelle Robinson, IG: @moderndaymoguls Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee Home Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA) ... View more