IAM Union members and leaders took part in the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement’s (LCLAA) 25th National Membership Convention in Atlanta this week. The event brought together delegates from across the country to participate in workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions focused on empowering Latino and Latina union members.
The convention adopted the theme “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy,” emphasizing issues such as immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice. Organizers highlighted the importance of unity within the labor movement to address challenges faced by Latino communities.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes joined a panel discussion 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 session focused 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, addressing young Latinas about resilience and purpose in their careers.
Other sessions at the convention included topics such as organizing strategies, immigration reform, career opportunities in building trades, and social justice advocacy. Nicole Fears, IAM Human Rights Director, participated in a workshop called “Career and Technical Education: Preparing Latino Workers for the Jobs of the Future.” She discussed IAM’s partnership with Aviation High School in Queens, New York. This program provides aviation training and scholarships to students while helping them access union jobs.
LCLAA remains an important part of the AFL-CIO by bringing together Latino labor leaders and activists to promote inclusion within unions.
National labor leaders who addressed delegates included AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten. Their remarks stressed solidarity as policies increasingly affect specific groups within the workforce.
“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 International President Brian Bryant reiterated his organization’s commitment to equity: “The labor movement must reflect the strength of all its members – regardless of background, status, or where they come from,” he said. “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 additional information or membership details about LCLAA visit lclaa.org.
