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 attend workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions focused on empowering Latino union members and mobilizing workers.
The convention’s theme was “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy.” Discussions addressed issues such as immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice.
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes participated in a panel 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 panelists shared their experiences in leadership roles within labor organizations.
“Hardships are what make you strong – there’s no such thing as going back,” said Cervantes. She encouraged young Latinas to remain resilient and take on leadership roles within the labor movement.
Workshops at the convention included topics such as organizing, immigration reform, careers in building trades, and social justice advocacy. Nicole Fears, IAM Human Rights Director, spoke during a session about career education for Latino workers. She discussed the IAM’s partnership with Aviation High School in Queens, New York. This program provides aviation training and scholarships to high school students to help them access union jobs in skilled trades.
LCLAA is an organization within the AFL-CIO that brings together Latino labor leaders and activists to promote justice and inclusion.
Delegates also heard from national labor leaders including AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten. These speakers highlighted solidarity as a key principle for advancing worker rights.
“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 emphasized the union’s commitment to fairness: “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 more information about LCLAA or how to join it can be found at lclaa.org.
