The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Human Rights Department opened its 2025 convention in Atlanta, focusing on the role of collective action in driving progress. The event began with a performance by actress Debra Straida, who recreated a scene from the Washerwoman’s Strike of 1881. The historical strike, led by women in Atlanta protesting low wages and poor working conditions, is seen as an early example of organized resistance to Jim Crow laws and highlighted the impact of labor organizing on social and economic issues.
“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 attended the convention, many representing human rights committees within their local chapters. Participants are looking for ways to address challenges in their communities through union engagement.
The importance of encouraging human rights involvement throughout all levels of IAM was underscored by several speakers, including IAM International President Brian Bryant. Other leaders who addressed the attendees included IAM Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cevantes, IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin, and IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez.
Throughout the event, delegates will receive training focused on mobilization and peaceful advocacy that they can apply within their own communities. Attendees also heard from a panel featuring members who have recently achieved positive outcomes through organized efforts led by their local human rights committees.
