Members and leaders of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) took part in the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement’s (LCLAA) 25th National Membership Convention held in Atlanta this week. The event brought together IAM delegates from across the United States to participate in workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions focused on supporting Latino union members and encouraging collective action.
The convention’s theme was “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy,” which addressed challenges faced by Latino communities and the broader labor movement. Topics included immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes participated in a panel titled “Breaking Barriers and Leading with Purpose: Honoring the Leadership of Latinas in Today’s Labor Movement.” She appeared alongside SEIU Secretary-Treasurer RocĂo Sáenz and Manassas City Council Member Sonia Vásquez Luna. The discussion highlighted personal experiences in leadership within labor organizations.
“Hardships are what make you strong – there’s no such thing as going back,” said Cervantes, encouraging young Latinas to remain resilient and pursue leadership roles within unions.
Workshops at the convention covered organizing strategies, immigration reform, career opportunities in building trades, and social justice advocacy. Nicole Fears, IAM Human Rights Director, spoke during a session about preparing Latino workers for future jobs. She discussed IAM’s partnership with Aviation High School in Queens, New York. This program provides students with aviation training, career guidance, and scholarships that help them access union jobs after graduation.
LCLAA continues its role as an important voice within the AFL-CIO by bringing together Latino labor leaders to promote justice and inclusion.
Attendees also heard from national labor figures such as AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten. They emphasized solidarity among workers while policies are being implemented that affect specific groups.
“We have to protect our people and this is not just about Latinos,” said LCLAA National President Evelyn DeJesus. “An injury to one is an injury to all.”
IAM reaffirmed its commitment to organizing efforts aimed at improving conditions for working people.
“The labor movement must reflect the strength of all its members – regardless of background, status, or where they come from,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Equity and fairness aren’t just values; they’re commitments that shape everything we fight for. At the IAM, we believe in building a union where every worker has a seat at the table, a voice in the room, and the power to shape their future.”
More information about LCLAA can be found at https://lclaa.org/.
