Justice for All: IAM Representative Reflects on Union Values and Solidarity
Larry Bickett, a business representative for IAM District W24, has raised concerns about growing division and intolerance in society. Writing in the District W24 newsletter with Northwest Labor Press, Bickett reflects on changes in attitudes toward hate and bigotry.
“There was a time when hate and bigotry were clearly recognized for what they are: harmful, divisive, and unacceptable. While those attitudes certainly existed in the past, I want to believe they were not normalized or openly celebrated in the way they seem to be today. Watching that shift has been troubling, and it raises an important question about who we are becoming,” Bickett writes.
He emphasizes that his message is not about political parties or labels but about core values. “I believe the Machinists Union strives to be inclusive. I also believe the IAM recognizes everyone as equal and refuses to single anyone out because of the color of their skin, who they love, how they worship, or where they come from. The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect.”
Bickett asks union members to reflect: “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?”
He notes that the labor movement has historically defended people’s rights regardless of political affiliation. According to Bickett: “The labor movement has always stood for people’s rights, especially for those who cannot stand up or speak out on their own. That purpose has never belonged to one political party it belongs to the working people.”
Bickett cites the IAM Union’s mission statement: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.” He outlines several values supporting this mission:
– Solidarity — uniting workers collectively.
– Justice — fair treatment at work and in communities.
– Dignity and Respect — ensuring all members are treated fairly.
– Accountability — responsible leadership within the union.
– Excellence — high standards in training and representation.
– Ethics — integrity in actions.
– Diversity and Equity — promoting inclusion.
“If these are truly our mission and our values, then we must live by them—not only when it is easy but when it is uncomfortable,” he states.
Bickett cautions against placing anyone above others or demeaning those with different views or ways of life. He adds: “No one should be placed above another. We should never tear down our fellow brothers, sisters, siblings, or members of our community because they think differently or live differently. Disagreement does not require dehumanization. Strength does not require cruelty.”
“Solidarity means standing together even when we don’t agree on everything,” he continues.
“Justice means speaking up—especially when it is hard.”
“Dignity and respect mean recognizing the humanity in every person.”
“Unity does not mean uniformity. It means respect. It means fairness.”
“And it means remembering that what binds us together is stronger than what tries to pull us apart.”
“This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in,” Bickett concludes.
“When we strive to live by these principles—not as Democrats or Republicans, not as Conservatives, Liberals, Independents, or other Parties but as unionists—we are at our best. And when we do, we can still make the world a better place for all of us.”
