Category: human rights

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IAM Union Calls for Immediate Release of Wrongfully Detained Member in Washington State

Source: US GOIAM Union

The IAM Union has confirmed that an IAM Union Local 695 (District 160) member and lawful U.S. permanent resident, Maximo Londonio, is being held in custody by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Londonio has been detained since May 15 after returning home from a trip with his wife and young daughter to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary and see family in the Philippines. Londonio is a lead fork lift driver at Crown Cork & Seal, an IAM-represented manufacturing facility in Lacey, Wash., where he has worked since 2017. Coworkers describe him as a well-liked and dedicated to his job.

The IAM Union is currently working with the employer to maintain Londonio’s job, as well as allied organizations to secure his release.

“Like so many across our country, our IAM Union Brother Maximo is simply trying to be the best husband and father he can be and provide for his family,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “To our knowledge, there has been no evidence to support the U.S. government’s continued detention of Maximo. We call for his immediate release.”

“Our union is a family – and we will speak up any time we see the human rights of our members are violated,” said IAM Union Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “We will continue to call for his release until Maximo is free and united with his family.” 

The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

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Join the 54th APRI National Conference in Chicago

Source: US GOIAM Union

The A. Philip Randolph Institute will host its 2025 Annual Education Conference at the Hilton Chicago from Aug. 6-10, 2025. This event is an opportunity for labor leaders and members to come together to learn, share, and mobilize around the key issues affecting working people today. 

The conference will feature a variety of continuous training programs and educational workshops aimed at empowering labor leaders. You’ll have the chance to engage with experts, network with fellow members, and learn strategies that can be implemented in your communities and workplaces.

You can register for the conference here. Advanced registration closes June 30, 2025.

Book your hotel reservation here.

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Spanish Leadership Program Continues to Build Power at Winpisinger Center

Source: US GOIAM Union

En Español

Recently, 24 IAM members from 15 Locals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, representing multiple industries, participated in the Spanish Leadership I Program at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center.

WATCH VIDEO

The Spanish-language programs at the Winpisinger Center are coordinated and developed by the Spanish Language Working Group (SLWG), which is comprised of IAM staff and members. The program covers a wide range of subjects designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective union leadership. Some of the topics include labor history, parliamentary procedure in local administration, the role of the steward, human rights, the importance of organizing, and government and politics. 

“One of the missions of the IAM is to empower our members through education,” said IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes. “By offering a comprehensive curriculum in Spanish, we can ensure that more members have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills.”

SEE PHOTOS

In addition to Leadership I, the Winpisinger Center offers an extended Spanish language curriculum that includes Leadership II and Advanced Leadership programs, alongside various other educational offerings. These classes cater to different levels of union leadership and engagement, ensuring that members are well-prepared for the challenges they may face in their workplace and while servicing their fellow IAM siblings.

For more information on enrolling in these educational programs, please contact your Local Officers, Business Representative, or General Chairperson.

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El Programa de Liderazgo en Español Continúa Fortaleciendo el Poder en el Centro Winpisinger

Recientemente, 24 miembros de la IAM de 15 Locales de los Estados Unidos, Canadá y Puerto Rico, los cuales representan múltiples industrias, participaron en el Programa de Liderazgo I en Español en el Centro de Educación y Tecnología William W. Winpisinger.

VER VIDEO 

Los programas en español en el Centro Winpisinger son coordinados y desarrollados por el grupo de facilitadores de Liderazgo en Español (SLWG, por sus siglas en inglés), que está compuesto por personal y miembros de la IAM. El programa cubre muchos temas importantes diseñados para preparar a los participantes con el conocimiento y las habilidades necesarias para un liderazgo sindical eficaz. Algunos de los temas incluyen la historia laboral, procedimientos parlamentarios en la administración de las Locales, el papel del delegado, los derechos humanos, la importancia de organizar y el gobierno y la política.

“Una de las misiones de la IAM es empoderar a nuestros miembros a través de la educación”, dijo la Secretaria-Tesorera General de la IAM Dora Cervantes. “Al ofrecer un plan de estudios integral en español, podemos garantizar que más miembros tengan la oportunidad de desarrollar sus habilidades cómo líderes.”

VER FOTOS

Además del Liderazgo I, el Centro Winpisinger ofrece un currículo extendido en español que incluye los programas de Liderazgo II y Liderazgo Avanzado, junto con otras cursos. Estas clases están dirigidas a diferentes niveles de liderazgo sindical, asegurando que los miembros estén bien preparados para los desafíos que puedan enfrentar en su lugar de trabajo y al proveer servicios a sus compañeros miembros de la IAM.

Para más información sobre cómo inscribirse en estos programas educativos, por favor contacte a sus Oficiales Locales, Representante Sindical o Presidente de la Local.

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SAVE THE DATE: LCLAA’s 25th National Convention

Source: US GOIAM Union

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) 25th National Convention will be held in Atlanta, Georgia from July 30 – August 3, 2025.

Join us as we work to strengthen communities, advocate for workers’ rights, and uplift Latino voices. Stay tuned for more details about this important event—you won’t want to miss it!

Stay tuned for more details regarding registration, agenda, and speakers. 

If you have any questions or require further information, please contact NationalConvention@lclaa.org

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SAVE THE DATE: 54th CBTU Convention

Source: US GOIAM Union

Make a note on your calendar and SAVE THE DATE for the 54th Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Convention!

Join us for an impactful gathering filled with important discussions, networking opportunities, and a celebration of our collective achievements.

When: May 20 – 26, 2025
 Where: Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace, Orlando, Florida

Details will be coming soon, so stay tuned! Additional information will be available at https://convention.cbtu.info/.

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Recognizing Native American Heritage Month: Honoring Contributions and Addressing Inequality

Source: US GOIAM Union

As we embark on Native American Heritage Month this November, the IAM emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the rich traditions, struggles, and significant contributions of Native American communities throughout history. This month serves as a vital opportunity for reflection and action toward equity and justice for Indigenous peoples across the nation.

Unions have long been champions for the rights of Native American workers, advocating for fair treatment and fighting against the injustices that many indigenous communities continue to face. The deep-rooted impacts of colonialism, land dispossession, and generational trauma are still felt today. Thousands of families have been affected by the painful legacy of forced boarding schools, and an estimated five million Native individuals were enslaved in America, highlighting the enduring challenges that define our collective history.

“We honor the resilience and strength of Native Americans who have contributed to the labor movement and the IAM,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Their efforts have not only benefitted their communities but have also advanced justice and equity for all workers.”

One critical focus this month is the stark reality of economic inequality affecting Native American women. As we approach Native Women’s Equal Pay Day on November 21, it is vital to draw attention to the fact that Native American women earn, on average, just 58 cents for every dollar earned by non-Hispanic white men. This persistent pay gap is a significant factor contributing to broader issues such as poverty and high unemployment rates among Indigenous women.

“As we strive for a fairer future, we must prioritize uplifting the voices of those who have historically been marginalized,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears. “Supporting Native American communities goes beyond this month; it is an ongoing commitment to recognizing their challenges and working collaboratively to promote equity in all aspects of life.”

To celebrate Native American Heritage Month, the IAM urges its members, their families, and others to become informed allies. We encourage everyone to learn about Indigenous history, support Native American businesses, and advocate for policies that uplift these communities.

During the IAM 41st Grand Lodge Convention, delegates passed a resolution to reaffirm the IAM’s support for indigenous rights. The resolution encourages Locals to include a tribal land acknowledgment at the beginning of their regular business meetings and actively seek knowledge about the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples in their respective territories. Additionally, it urged these Locals to consult with tribes to ensure that their acknowledgments are accurate and respectful and to participate in relevant initiatives.

The resolution also encourages Locals to identify issues where such initiatives are lacking. In these cases, they should initiate programs within the constitutional framework of the Local human rights committee to assist with education, organizing, representation, and community outreach.

Together, we can strive for a future that honors the past while working diligently towards a more just and equitable society for all.

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SAVE THE DATE: 2025 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference

Source: US GOIAM Union

The IAM will join labor and civil rights allies in Austin, Texas, from Jan. 9 – 12 for the 2025 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference.

The theme of this year’s MLK Conference is “Toward the Dream: Reimagining the Fight for Justice, Freedom and Progress.” 

This conference is a critical platform for dialogue and action at the intersection of labor and civil rights. It celebrates Dr. King’s enduring legacy and aims to strengthen the bonds between these intertwined movements. 

Participants will engage in discussions and workshops designed to empower and prepare them to advocate for equity and democracy in their communities and workplaces.

If you’re an IAM member who plans to attend and need additional information, please contact IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears at nfears@iamaw.org.

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IAM Union Celebrates Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month

Source: US GOIAM Union

In observance of Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month, we are reminded of the vibrant contributions and the indelible impact of the Latino community within our industries, the labor movement, and our nation. As advocates for workers’ rights, we take immense pride in representing a diverse array of Latinos and Latinas across various sectors. Their hard work, resilience, and rich cultural heritage have been critical to the growth and success of the IAM and the broader labor movement.

As we celebrate this important month, the IAM also recognizes the persistent challenges faced by Latino workers. Notably, Latinos are disproportionately represented in lower-wage jobs and are nearly 30% more likely to suffer fatal injuries on the job compared to their counterparts. These statistics underscore the critical importance of the union’s mission to secure safer working conditions and equitable treatment for all workers through robust union contracts.

The disparities extend further into the realm of wage inequality, with Latinas facing the most severe wage gap in the country. Earning only 51 cents for every dollar paid to a white non-Latino man, Latinas’ earnings reflect a systemic issue that spans all types of employment, including part-time, seasonal, and migrant work. This gap not only affects the economic stability of Latinas and their families but also signifies a broader issue of gender and ethnic inequality that pervades our society.

The fight for legislation and measures that advance safety and equity for all workers is more crucial than ever and a union contract can serve as a powerful tool in bridging these gaps, offering protection, and advocating for the rights of all workers.

Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a time for celebration but also a call to action. It is an opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to fighting for the rights and well-being of all workers. Together, as a united front, we can continue to push for meaningful changes that ensure safety, equity, and justice for the Latino community and beyond.

As unionists, we stand firm in our commitment to these principles. Let’s use this time to celebrate the incredible contributions of the Latino community, while also recognizing the work that still lies ahead in our pursuit of economic fairness for everyone. 

Together, we can create a more equitable and safe work environment for all.

¡Sí se puede!

In solidarity,

Dora Cervantes
General Secretary-Treasurer

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IAM Union Celebrates Hawaiian History Month

Source: US GOIAM Union

This month, the IAM proudly commemorates Hawaiian History Month, an annual celebration that spotlights Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Lili’uokalani, and the invaluable cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people.

IAM members have come forward to share their perspectives on the importance of this celebration, reflecting a collective understanding and appreciation for Hawaiian history and culture.

IAM Union’s dedication to this significant month stems from a profound respect and admiration for the Hawaiian community’s historical and ongoing contributions to the union’s diverse tapestry. 

“Celebrating Hawaiian History Month isn’t just about acknowledging the past; it’s about weaving the rich cultural narratives of the Hawaiian people into our union’s future,” stated IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears.

This year’s celebration focused on Queen Liliʻuokalani, a figure of immense historical importance and a symbol of resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.

“By learning and celebrating the rich heritage of the Hawaiian people, we strengthen the bonds of solidarity within our union and with communities everywhere,” said Fears.

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