The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is encouraging its members and allies to participate in the 2026 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil & Human Rights Conference, scheduled for January 15-18, 2026, in Baltimore.
This year’s conference theme is “Honoring Our History – Fighting for Our Future.” Organizers say the event will focus on connecting the labor movement’s past with ongoing efforts to address current challenges. According to organizers, the theme reflects how the labor and civil rights movements are closely connected and emphasizes learning from history to inform future action.
The conference aims to serve as a platform for dialogue on issues at the intersection of labor rights and civil and human rights. The agenda includes discussions led by experts on topics such as collective bargaining rights, threats to democracy, voting rights, and economic justice.
Attendees will have access to workshops and breakout sessions designed to provide practical tools for organizing within their communities and workplaces. Organizers state that both union members and leaders can use these opportunities to develop skills, build alliances, and prepare for advocacy efforts.
AFL-CIO recently named Alex Rias as its new Director of Civil, Human, and Women’s Rights. He will oversee this annual conference moving forward.
The event will take place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor located at 401 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Early reservations are recommended due to limited hotel availability; rooms are offered at a negotiated rate of $219 per night. Conference programming starts on Thursday afternoon, January 15. Attendees are advised that accommodations on January 14 may be limited.
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