Members and leaders of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) participated 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 engage in workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions focused on supporting Latino union members and mobilizing workers.
The convention’s theme was “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy,” which addressed challenges facing Latino communities and the broader labor movement. Topics included immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes joined 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 Rocío Sáenz and Manassas City Council Member Sonia Vásquez Luna. The discussion centered on personal experiences in leadership roles 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 within the labor movement.
Workshops at the convention covered organizing strategies, immigration reform, careers in building trades, and social justice advocacy. One session featured IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears discussing a partnership between IAM and Aviation High School in Queens, New York. This program offers aviation training, career guidance, and scholarships to high school students to prepare them for union jobs in skilled trades.
LCLAA continues its role within the AFL-CIO by bringing together Latino labor leaders and allies to advocate for justice and inclusion.
National labor leaders including AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten also addressed attendees. They spoke about building solidarity as policies affecting specific groups are being enacted.
“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 as an affiliate of LCLAA to organize, educate, and support 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.”
For more information about LCLAA or joining the organization, visit https://lclaa.org/.
