Members of the Local 2198 Young Workers Committee in Houston marked Black History Month by distributing Black History Bags at the United Airlines Reservation office. The bags contained literature about the contributions of Black workers to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) and highlighted their role in advancing justice, dignity, and equality in the workplace. According to organizers, these materials aimed to remind members that inclusion, courage, and collective action have always been central to the union’s strength.
“Black History Month is a powerful reminder that the rights and protections we have today were built on the courage, sacrifice and determination of Black workers who refused to accept injustice,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “I’m incredibly proud of the Local 2198 Young Workers Committee for honoring that legacy and ensuring the next generation understands that our union’s strength comes from solidarity, education and standing together. Their leadership is helping carry forward the fight for dignity, equality and respect for every IAM member.”
The committee also organized a screening of “Pullman and the Railroad Rebellion – A Chicago Stories Documentary.” The film focused on Pullman Porters and examined how Black labor activism influenced both working conditions and broader civil rights progress. The documentary highlighted A. Philip Randolph’s leadership in transforming labor organizing into a foundation for national civil rights achievements.
Organizers emphasized that efforts for workers’ rights have always been closely linked with civil rights advocacy.
