IAM Union members, retirees, and staff joined other union women and allies in San Diego, California for the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention. The event aimed to strengthen women’s roles within the labor movement, unions, communities, and workplaces.
The convention marked a significant transition for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) delegation. Julie Frietchen, who has served as IAM’s Women and Young Workers Director and CLUW Vice President for three years, handed over her position as IAM’s elected Vice President to Demetress Colbert. Colbert will officially take on the role of IAM Women and Young Workers Director starting January 1, 2026.
“I want the IAM to build our presence and activism in CLUW,” said Colbert. “I’m excited to take on this role and recruit more sisters to become active in CLUW, to carry what they learn back to their unions, to build the courage to take on leadership positions, and to lift up fellow women.”
At the convention, delegates elected new vice presidents representing each participating union. Demetress Colbert was chosen unopposed as IAM’s representative with support from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from Communications Workers of America (CWA) was elected as CLUW National President.
Before the official start of the convention, attendees participated in workshops focused on topics such as women workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice efforts, health improvement strategies for physical and mental well-being, labor history concerning women, and organizing basics within CLUW.
Alana Kirkpatrick of IAM Local 850 commented on these sessions: “The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie,” she said. “In addition to tending to the business of the Convention, passing resolutions and constitutional amendments, we were able to discuss challenges in the workplace specific to women and how we can support ourselves and each other.”
IAM General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes addressed participants through a video message due to conflicting union commitments that prevented her attendance in person.
“First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ Cervantes said. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes acknowledged Frietchen’s contributions during her tenure: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” she said. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
Delegates voted on resolutions that will guide CLUW’s direction over the next two years.
“It’s very important for women to come together in a space like this where we can connect with each other, share experiences, and support one another in the challenges we face as working women especially as workers’ and women’s rights are under attack,” Frietchen said. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
About 400 delegates along with guests from major North American unions attended this year’s convention.
