The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) opened its 2025 Human Rights Conference in Atlanta, focusing on the role of collective action in advancing social and economic justice. The event began with a performance by actress Debra Straida, who reenacted the Washerwoman’s Strike of 1881. This historical strike involved women protesting low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of respect, marking one of the earliest organized labor actions against Jim Crow laws in the South.
“Siblings, we are going to do things a little differently at this convention,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears. “We are going to vibrate energy in a way to show everyone here how important your voice can become if you stand together and fight for what is just.”
More than 300 delegates from various IAM locals attended the conference. Many participants serve on human rights committees within their locals and are looking for ways to address issues in their communities.
The importance of promoting human rights engagement throughout the organization was emphasized by several speakers, including IAM International President Brian Bryant, Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin, and Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez.
Throughout the convention, delegates will participate in training sessions focused on mobilization and peaceful advocacy strategies. These sessions aim to equip attendees with tools to identify local issues that could benefit from union solidarity. Delegates also heard from a panel featuring IAM members who have recently achieved positive outcomes through organized actions led by their local human rights committees.
