IAM Union members and leaders participated in the 25th National Membership Convention of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) in Atlanta this week. Delegates from across the country attended workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions aimed at empowering Latino and Latina union members and mobilizing workers for collective action.
The convention’s theme, “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy,” addressed issues such as immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice within both Latino communities and the broader labor movement.
Dora Cervantes, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer, joined a panel titled “Breaking Barriers and Leading with Purpose: Honoring the Leadership of Latinas in Today’s Labor Movement.” The discussion included SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Rocío Sáenz and Manassas City Council Member Sonia Vásquez Luna. Panelists shared personal experiences about perseverance and leadership while encouraging future generations of Latinas to take active roles in labor movements. Cervantes said, “Hardships are what make you strong – there’s no such thing as going back,” urging young Latinas to remain resilient.
The convention also offered workshops on organizing strategies, immigration reform efforts, career opportunities in building trades, and social justice advocacy. Nicole Fears, IAM Human Rights Director, spoke during a session focused on preparing Latino workers for future jobs through career and technical education. She highlighted the partnership between IAM and Aviation High School in Queens, New York—a collaboration that provides students with aviation training, career guidance, and scholarships to support entry into skilled union jobs.
National labor leaders such as AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten addressed attendees. They emphasized solidarity within the labor movement amid policies affecting specific groups. Evelyn DeJesus—LCLAA National President and AFT Executive Vice President—stated: “We have to protect our people and this is not just about Latinos… An injury to one is an injury to all.”
IAM International President Brian Bryant reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to equity within unions: “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.”
LCLAA remains part of AFL-CIO’s network supporting Latino labor leaders’ pursuit of justice.
For more information or to join LCLAA visit lclaa.org.