IAM members from across Alabama recently convened in Huntsville for the IAM Union Alabama State Council meeting. The event brought together union leaders, community representatives, and political candidates to discuss key issues affecting working families in the state.
The meeting began with a welcome from Michelle Watkins, a member of the Huntsville City Council. Delegates heard presentations and participated in discussions focused on legislative priorities, organizing initiatives, and political involvement. Among the main topics were efforts to defend service contract jobs, promote manufacturing opportunities, support union rights, and ensure that workers have representation at both state and federal levels.
Rickie Langford, President of the IAM Union Alabama State Council, emphasized the importance of solidarity among workers: “When working people in Alabama stand together, there is no force more powerful,” Langford said. “This meeting was about uniting our voices and building our strength across the political aisles for the road ahead.”
Several political figures and labor allies addressed attendees. These included State Representatives Anthony Daniels (District 53) and Laura Hall (District 19), Dr. Will Boyd (candidate for Governor of Alabama), U.S. Representative Brandon Moore (candidate for U.S. Senate), as well as IAM officials Loren Almeroth, DeLane Adams, Nicole Fears, Frederick Ross, Pam Evans, Helena Thornton; Galen Bullock of EBS; Pat Keahey from Keahey Law Firm; and Jacob Morrison of the North Alabama Area Labor Council (AFL-CIO). Speakers highlighted both challenges and opportunities facing workers throughout Alabama.
Delegates also received information regarding the ongoing government shutdown and were updated on IAM’s actions to secure back pay for federal contract employees impacted by events on Capitol Hill.
The council continues to play a significant role in shaping political strategies and legislative advocacy for IAM members within Alabama. Participants left with renewed motivation to engage politically at local and national levels.
Members serving on the Executive Board include Rickie Langford (President), Gavin Brunner (Secretary Treasurer), James Tate (VP North), Joe Cleveland (VP North), Anthony Holton (VP South), and Michelle Hunt (VP South).
