CPdude,
I agree that the communication between the union and new joiners is very poor. I had similar problems as yourself when I joined CX roughly 6 years ago. I think there should be a welcome package sent out by the AOA, explaining the history of the company, the AOA and the relationship between the two. (not now obviously, due to the ban) This would allow people to make a more informed decision about joining.
With regards to ASL, the hatchet has been buried, all ASL pilots had the chance to join CXfrieghters and the AOA in 1999. Those who didn't join CX remained with ASL either due to retirement age concerns (ie close to or over 55) and those that wanted to circumvent the seniority system and get quick command, these people also gave up there chance o join the AOA.
The AOA has been seeking more input from the frieghter guys, however few come forward to join the committee. Maybe it's time for you to rejoin the AOA and join the committee so the concerns and views of the freighter pilots is heard. How else will we know what your conceerns are?? If you are not interested, try making it known to those on the frieghters that it's time for some of them to join the committee. Hope to see you on Cprune!