IAM Union members and leaders gathered in Atlanta this week for the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement’s (LCLAA) 25th National Membership Convention. Delegates from across the country attended workshops, panel discussions, and plenary sessions aimed at empowering Latino and Latina union members and mobilizing workers.
The convention theme, “United We Stand: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers and Protecting Our Legacy,” addressed issues such as immigration, economic equity, leadership development, and workplace justice. Participants focused on supporting one another to strengthen the broader labor movement.
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 was joined by SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Rocío Sáenz and Manassas City Council Member Sonia Vásquez Luna. The discussion centered on personal experiences in leadership roles and encouraging young Latinas to become involved in labor and civic life.
“Hardships are what make you strong – there’s no such thing as going back,” said Cervantes. She encouraged resilience among young Latinas pursuing leadership within the labor movement.
Workshops at the convention included topics such as organizing, immigration reform, careers in building trades, and social justice advocacy. IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears took part in a session about preparing Latino workers for future jobs through career and technical education. She highlighted IAM’s partnership with Aviation High School in Queens, New York. This collaboration provides aviation training, career guidance, and scholarships to students, helping them access union jobs in skilled trades.
LCLAA is recognized as an important organization within the AFL-CIO that brings together Latino labor leaders, activists, and allies to advocate for justice and inclusion.
National labor leaders including AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and AFT President Randi Weingarten also spoke at the event. They emphasized solidarity amid policies that affect specific groups.
“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 reaffirmed the union’s commitment to inclusion: “The labor movement must reflect the strength of all its members – regardless of background, status, or where they come from. 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 joining the organization visit lclaa.org.
