BBJ descend from your jet and come back to Earth. That 'union' speech was some time ago, unfortunately, it seems to have pressed a couple of your buttons.
My point with regards to the ALAEA is that the current organisation is working tirelessly on a range of issues covering LAMEs all over the country and doing a pretty fine job of it. The current climate is causing the aviation sector to evaluate their operations and I'm pretty sure that LAMEs out there will be in the firing line, at least there is an organisation that will take up their cause.
Personally I'm glad I contribute to the ALAEA, as on several occasions I've been able to turn to them for assistance when left out in the cold by my beloved management and they have always been helpful. I think the majority of LAMEs feel the same, obviously your case is different. You seemed to have done well without being a member, good luck to you out there. For the majority of us, being organised has it's benefits.