As Black History Month 2026 begins, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is highlighting its historical role in supporting African American workers within the labor movement. The IAM notes that unions have played a significant part in advancing the rights of Black workers, referencing figures such as Frederick Douglass, who became president of the Colored National Labor Union in 1872, and A. Philip Randolph, organizer of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in the 1920s.
IAM International President Brian Bryant stated, “It’s mind-boggling to learn about the tremendous history that links labor activism with the upward economic mobility of the Black Americans. Our union has been at the forefront of civil rights and Black History Month is a great time to share our union’s story.”
The IAM began openly discussing integration by 1944, encouraging local chapters to admit African American workers. In that year, District 727—which represented 35,000 Lockheed employees in southern California—sent an open letter to locals promoting diversity.
Roman Mayfield’s experience is highlighted as a turning point for inclusion within the union. After being hired at Boeing in Seattle in 1946 but initially denied membership due to discriminatory policies, Mayfield continued attending meetings until he was accepted as a member in 1950. His persistence led to broader changes at Boeing and within IAM ranks.
Other notable moments include former IAM president Al Hayes meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in New York City in 1962; predominantly African-American lodges being chartered during the 1960s; efforts by union representative Herb Ward to help rebuild Watts, California after riots in 1965; major contract negotiations benefiting many Black workers at General Dynamics in Fort Worth during the 1970s; and appointments of Robert Roach Jr. and Diane Babineaux as high-ranking African American leaders within IAM.
The organization continues its involvement with groups like the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) and the A. Philip Randolph Institute, both dedicated to promoting economic fairness and racial justice for Black workers.
