Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

IAM141.org

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is urging the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee to quickly confirm Julie Su as Secretary of Labor. Su, who has been serving as Acting Secretary since March 11, 2023, was previously approved by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor on July 13, 2021.

“Julie has a long record of commitment to protecting working Americans and ensuring that workplace laws and regulations are enforced accordingly,” reads the letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her work as the deputy DOL secretary, working collectively with former DOL Secretary Marty Walsh to ensure this very important federal agency promoted workforce development programs, helped promote good-paying jobs that lead to the Middle Class, and held bad-faith employers accountable.” 

In her role as Deputy Secretary, Su oversaw the Department of Labor’s operations, including managing the workforce, budget, and strategic priorities. Her tenure is noted for driving advancements within the department.

Before her federal service, Su was Secretary for the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), where she enforced workplace laws, addressed wage theft, and improved job safety standards. Her leadership saw enhanced enforcement of labor laws in California.

Su’s career has focused on worker and civil rights, recognized by a MacArthur Foundation grant. As California’s labor commissioner, she led efforts against wage theft and for fair labor practices, impacting labor law enforcement.

Su also worked at Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, where she combined litigation, policy reform, and community engagement to advance rights for marginalized communities.

Recognized for her legal expertise, Su has been listed among California’s “Top 75 Women Litigators” and as one of Harvard Law School’s noteworthy alumni. She has taught at UCLA and Northeastern Law Schools, sharing her knowledge in labor and civil rights.

A graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Su began her career with a Skadden Fellowship, focusing on social justice. Fluent in Mandarin and Spanish, her background enhances her advocacy for the workforce.

In the letter, Machinists Union International President Brian Bryant framed the Su nomination as part of a larger resurgence of labor momentum in the United States. “We are at a pivotal point in the labor movement,” said Bryant. “There is a growing favorable opinion of labor unions, and we must have an agency with leadership focused on protecting and safeguarding our nation’s workforce for today and our future. That leadership is Julie Su.”

The IAM’s endorsement highlights Su’s qualifications and dedication to worker welfare. The organization supports her swift confirmation, pointing to the positive impact her leadership would have on the labor market in the United States.

+ Read the letter here.

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Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Machinists Union Calls for Immediate Senate Action on Julie Su Nomination

28 February 2024

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is urging the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee to quickly confirm Julie Su as Secretary of Labor. Su, who has been serving as Acting Secretary since March 11, 2023, was previously approved by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor on July 13, 2021.

“Julie has a long record of commitment to protecting working Americans and ensuring that workplace laws and regulations are enforced accordingly,” reads the letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Her work as the deputy DOL secretary, working collectively with former DOL Secretary Marty Walsh to ensure this very important federal agency promoted workforce development programs, helped promote good-paying jobs that lead to the Middle Class, and held bad-faith employers accountable.” 

In her role as Deputy Secretary, Su oversaw the Department of Labor’s operations, including managing the workforce, budget, and strategic priorities. Her tenure is noted for driving advancements within the department.

Before her federal service, Su was Secretary for the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), where she enforced workplace laws, addressed wage theft, and improved job safety standards. Her leadership saw enhanced enforcement of labor laws in California.

Su’s career has focused on worker and civil rights, recognized by a MacArthur Foundation grant. As California’s labor commissioner, she led efforts against wage theft and for fair labor practices, impacting labor law enforcement.

Su also worked at Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, where she combined litigation, policy reform, and community engagement to advance rights for marginalized communities.

Recognized for her legal expertise, Su has been listed among California’s “Top 75 Women Litigators” and as one of Harvard Law School’s noteworthy alumni. She has taught at UCLA and Northeastern Law Schools, sharing her knowledge in labor and civil rights.

A graduate of Stanford University and Harvard Law School, Su began her career with a Skadden Fellowship, focusing on social justice. Fluent in Mandarin and Spanish, her background enhances her advocacy for the workforce.

In the letter, Machinists Union International President Bryan Bryant framed the Su nomination as part of a larger resurgence of labor momentum in the United States. “We are at a pivotal point in the labor movement,” said Bryant. “There is a growing favorable opinion of labor unions, and we must have an agency with leadership focused on protecting and safeguarding our nation’s workforce for today and our future. That leadership is Julie Su.”

The IAM’s endorsement highlights Su’s qualifications and dedication to worker welfare. The organization supports her swift confirmation, pointing to the positive impact her leadership would have on the labor market in the United States.

+ Read the letter here.

Related

Al Yamada: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication at SEA

Al Yamada: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication at SEA

Al Yamada: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication at SEA

Al Yamada: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication at SEA

IAM141.org

SEATTLE — Ask anyone at Local 1351 in Seattle, and they will struggle to remember a time when Al Yamada wasn’t President. Al has served as President of Local 1351 for so long, in fact, that only the most senior IAM Members at Seattle’s Sea-Tac airport can remember anyone else in the role.

After over three decades of service to Members of the Machinists Union, Al Yamada is set to retire at the end of January. His tenure as a union member and steward spans more than 30 years, a period marked by unwavering dedication and hard-won contributions to the rights of unified airline workers. For the past two decades, he has served the members of Local 1351 as Local Lodge President, gavelling in hundreds of Union Business Meetings and Events over the years.

Al will not need to give up the gavel of Local 1351, even in retirement. In recognition of his years of service, union members presented Al with a commemorative plaque mounted with the gavel he has used for the past 20 years as President. The plaque was presented to Al by Seattle Ramp Chairman Duke Higgins. Assistant General Chairwoman Terry Stansbury also attended the ceremony.

Al Yamada, known for his easygoing and friendly nature, often deflects praise to shine a spotlight on Local 1351 and the city he loves, Seattle. This local, steeped in history as one of the original District 141 lodges founded in 1945, is a source of great pride for him.

As a native of Seattle, Al’s deep connection to the city is evident. He enthusiastically shared this love for his hometown during the District 141 Safety Conference in December 2018, where he not only welcomed attendees but also offered insights into navigating the city’s public transportation.

What truly stands out about Al is his genuine rapport with the members of Local 1351. He is not humble when discussing his fellow union members. To him, these individuals are more than just colleagues; they are friends whose well-being and interests he deeply cares for.

Al’s departure will leave a proud legacy for Local 1351 and the broader union community. His role transcended that of a Local Lodge President; he has been a mentor, a staunch advocate for workers’ rights, and, most importantly, a valued and cherished friend to all who know him.

Related News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Al Yamada: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication at SEA

16 January 2024

SEATTLE  — Ask anyone at Local 1351 in Seattle, and they will struggle to remember a time when Al Yamada wasn’t President. Al has served as President of Local 1351 for so long, in fact, that only the most senior IAM Members at Seattle’s Sea-Tac airport can remember anyone else in the role.

After over three decades of service to Members of the Machinists Union, Al Yamada is set to retire at the end of January. His tenure as a union member and steward spans more than 30 years, a period marked by unwavering dedication and hard-won contributions to the rights of unified airline workers. For the past two decades, he has served the members of Local 1351 as Local Lodge President, gavelling in hundreds of Union Business Meetings and Events over the years.

Al will not need to give up the gavel of Local 1351, even in retirement. In recognition of his years of service, union members presented Al with a commemorative plaque mounted with the gavel he has used for the past 20 years as President. The plaque was presented to Al by Seattle Ramp Chairman Duke Higgins. Assistant General Chairwoman Terry Stansbury also attended the ceremony.

Al Yamada, known for his easygoing and friendly nature, often deflects praise to shine a spotlight on Local 1351 and the city he loves, Seattle. This local, steeped in history as one of the original District 141 lodges founded in 1945, is a source of great pride for him.

As a native of Seattle, Al’s deep connection to the city is evident. He enthusiastically shared this love for his hometown during the District 141 Safety Conference in December 2018, where he not only welcomed attendees but also offered insights into navigating the city’s public transportation.

What truly stands out about Al is his genuine rapport with the members of Local 1351. He is not humble when discussing his fellow union members. To him, these individuals are more than just colleagues; they are friends whose well-being and interests he deeply cares for.

Al’s departure will leave a proud legacy for Local 1351 and the broader union community. His role transcended that of a Local Lodge President; he has been a mentor, a staunch advocate for workers’ rights, and, most importantly, a valued and cherished friend to all who know him.

Related

Celebration and Solidarity: Local 914 Launches Black Tie Charity Event

Celebration and Solidarity: Local 914 Launches Black Tie Charity Event

Celebration and Solidarity: Local 914 Launches Black Tie Charity Event

Celebration and Solidarity: Local 914 Launches Black Tie Charity Event

IAM141.org

Machinists Union Local 914, representing over 4,000 members at Newark Liberty International Airport, recently hosted its inaugural Black Tie Holiday Gala and Toy Drive. The event, held at the prestigious Newark Symphony Hall, was a testament to the local’s commitment to the Newark, N.J. area, IAM leaders, and local dignitaries. Event organizers also collected hundreds of toys – just in time for the Holidays.

The gala was not just a social event but also a charitable one, with over 200 toys collected for local children. IAM Local 914 President Richie Roberts, who has been with the IAM for a decade, highlighted the local’s mission and future aspirations. “We are trying to make a difference in this Local Lodge,” Roberts said. “We are moving the Local forward and there’s a lot more that we have planned.”

Roberts extended his gratitude to Donyea Hoffman, Chair of the Local 914 Human Rights Committee, for her instrumental role in making the gala a reality. The event also served as a platform to honor retiring IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. with an appreciation award. This award recognized the significant contributions of Martinez and the IAM in protecting the jobs of thousands of IAM airline members during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through their advocacy for the airline Payroll Support Program. The Payroll Support Program was instrumental in preventing widespread President layoffs that would have crippled the commercial aviation sector during the pandemic.

Accepting the award on behalf of Martinez was IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, who was present along with other notable IAM figures such as Edison Fraser, Chief of Staff of the IAM Air Transport Territory, and IAM Airline Coordinator Tom Reagan. In his keynote address, Johnsen commended Local 914’s efforts, saying, “Local 914 is doing things the right way to represent and bring together our membership. Across the Air Transport Territory, we are seeing our members more engaged in their union and their communities.”

The gala also recognized the contributions of Martin Melody Law LLC and National Group Protection have made on behalf of Local 914 and its membership. The event was graced by several Newark area elected officials, including councilmembers Larry Crump and Patrick Council, a representative for Councilmember Michael Silva, and former councilmembers Gayle Chaneyfield Jenkins and Oscar Sydney James II.

President Roberts expressed deep appreciation for the support from the IAM leadership. “I’d especially like to thank General Vice President Johnsen, Chief of Staff Fraser and the Air Transport Territory staff from the bottom of my heart,” he said. “They are always there for anything we want to do as a Local.”

This gala is the latest in a series of initiatives by Local 914, which includes a breast cancer walk, a member appreciation event, and a local lodge scholarship program, further demonstrating its active and vital role in the Newark community.

Related News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Celebration and Solidarity: Local 914 Launches Black Tie Charity Event

12 December 2023 2023

NEWARK – Machinists Union Local 914, representing over 4,000 members at Newark Liberty International Airport, recently hosted its inaugural Black Tie Holiday Gala and Toy Drive. The event, held at the prestigious Newark Symphony Hall, was a testament to the Local’s commitment to the Newark, N.J. area, IAM leaders, and local dignitaries. Event organizers also collected hundreds of toys – just in time for the Holidays.

The gala was not just a social event but also a charitable one, with over 200 toys collected for local children. IAM Local 914 President Richie Roberts, who has been with the IAM for a decade, highlighted the local’s mission and future aspirations. “We are trying to make a difference in this Local Lodge,” Roberts said. “We are moving the Local forward and there’s a lot more that we have planned.”

Roberts extended his gratitude to Donyea Hoffman, Chair of the Local 914 Human Rights Committee, for her instrumental role in making the gala a reality. The event also served as a platform to honor retiring IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. with an appreciation award. This award recognized the significant contributions of Martinez and the IAM in protecting the jobs of thousands of IAM airline members during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly through their advocacy for the airline Payroll Support Program. The Payroll Support Program was instrumental in preventing widespread President layoffs that would have crippled the commercial aviation sector during the pandemic.

Accepting the award on behalf of Martinez was IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen, who was present along with other notable IAM figures such as Edison Fraser, Chief of Staff of the IAM Air Transport Territory, and IAM Airline Coordinator Tom Reagan. In his keynote address, Johnsen commended Local 914’s efforts, saying, “Local 914 is doing things the right way to represent and bring together our membership. Across the Air Transport Territory, we are seeing our members more engaged in their union and their communities.”

The gala also recognized the contributions of Martin Melody Law LLC and National Group Protection have made on behalf of Local 914 and its membership. The event was graced by several Newark area elected officials, including councilmembers Larry Crump and Patrick Council, a representative for Councilmember Michael Silva, and former councilmembers Gayle Chaneyfield Jenkins and Oscar Sydney James II.

President Roberts expressed deep appreciation for the support from the IAM leadership. “I’d especially like to thank General Vice President Johnsen, Chief of Staff Fraser and the Air Transport Territory staff from the bottom of my heart,” he said. “They are always there for anything we want to do as a Local.”

This gala is the latest in a series of initiatives by Local 914, which includes a breast cancer walk, a member appreciation event, and a local lodge scholarship program, further demonstrating its active and vital role in the Newark community.

Related

Unruly Woman Fined $40,000

Unruly Woman Fined $40,000

Unruly Woman Fined $40,000

Unruly Woman Fined $40,000

IAM141.org

PHOENIX – Cayla Farris, a passenger on an American Airlines flight from Phoenix to Honolulu on February 13, 2022, has been ordered by United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to pay $38,952 in restitution to the airline. Farris, who pleaded guilty to interfering with a flight crew member, exhibited unruly behavior that included using profanity and threatening the crew and other passengers. Her actions led to significant delays and disruptions, including the flight’s return to Phoenix and the rerouting of several other flights.

The investigation, conducted by the FBI and the Phoenix Police Department, highlighted the severity of the incident, which was part of a broader trend of increased unruly passenger incidents during the pandemic. In 2021, nearly 6,000 such incidents were reported, a stark increase from the approximately 1,100 incidents in 2019. Though these numbers have declined, they remain higher than pre-pandemic levels.

As part of her sentence, Farris served 3.6 months in prison and is now under three years of supervised release. During this time, she is prohibited from traveling on commercial aircraft without prior authorization. This case underscores the government’s heightened efforts to combat air rage incidents and enforce federal laws requiring passengers to comply with crewmember instructions.

Experts note that cramped and stressful flight conditions often lead to disruptive behavior. This case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of such actions and the importance of maintaining a safe and orderly environment on commercial flights.

While Cayla Farris faced a substantial $40,000 fine for her disruptive behavior on an American Airlines flight, this isn’t the heftiest penalty the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued since the pandemic. An earlier incident in July 2021 resulted in an even larger fine. In that case, a woman on a flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Charlotte was fined $81,950 for physically assaulting a flight attendant and attempting to open the cabin door.

Related News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Unruly Woman Fined $40,000

16 November 2023

PHOENIX – Cayla Farris, a passenger on an American Airlines flight from Phoenix to Honolulu on February 13, 2022, has been ordered by United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich to pay $38,952 in restitution to the airline. Farris, who pleaded guilty to interfering with a flight crew member, exhibited unruly behavior that included using profanity and threatening the crew and other passengers. Her actions led to significant delays and disruptions, including the flight’s return to Phoenix and the rerouting of several other flights.

The investigation, conducted by the FBI and the Phoenix Police Department, highlighted the severity of the incident, which was part of a broader trend of increased unruly passenger incidents during the pandemic. In 2021, nearly 6,000 such incidents were reported, a stark increase from the approximately 1,100 incidents in 2019. Though these numbers have declined, they remain higher than pre-pandemic levels.

As part of her sentence, Farris served 3.6 months in prison and is now under three years of supervised release. During this time, she is prohibited from traveling on commercial aircraft without prior authorization. This case underscores the government’s heightened efforts to combat air rage incidents and enforce federal laws requiring passengers to comply with crewmember instructions.

Experts note that cramped and stressful flight conditions often lead to disruptive behavior. This case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of such actions and the importance of maintaining a safe and orderly environment on commercial flights.

While Cayla Farris faced a substantial $40,000 fine for her disruptive behavior on an American Airlines flight, this isn’t the heftiest penalty the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued since the pandemic. An earlier incident in July 2021 resulted in an even larger fine. In that case, a woman on a flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Charlotte was fined $81,950 for physically assaulting a flight attendant and attempting to open the cabin door.

Related

Strength Through Solidarity: Grievance Committee Members Convene in Philadelphia

Strength Through Solidarity: Grievance Committee Members Convene in Philadelphia

Strength Through Solidarity: Grievance Committee Members Convene in Philadelphia

Strength Through Solidarity: Grievance Committee Members Convene in Philadelphia

IAM141.org

PHILADELPHIA – Hundreds of Grievance Committee Members from the Machinists Union gathered in Philadelphia to discuss the future of work in the airline industry.

A major focus of the deliberations was the upcoming contract negotiations at American and United Airlines, both of which are likely to fall under Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act, often referred to simply as “Section 6.”

Last year, Union Negotiators were optimistic that Section 6 could be avoided at United Airlines in favor of an expedited process that would have delivered an agreement to union members much faster. The carrier had initially agreed to keep the negotiations focused on a few contractual provisions deemed critical to front-line union members. Unfortunately, the company began using endless stalling tactics that threatened to drag negotiations out indefinitely, making the expedited process impossible.

Section 6 outlines the procedure for amending and renegotiating existing collective bargaining agreements in the airline and railroad sectors. Typically, Section 6 negotiations can take several years to complete.

The Railway Labor Act was initially established to prevent disruptions in interstate commerce due to strikes and other job actions that could create economic havoc. The Act mandates that both parties, in this case, the union and the airlines, engage in extended discussions once changes to the prevailing agreement are proposed. These changes can encompass rates of pay, rules, or working conditions. A critical aspect of Section 6 is its emphasis on maintaining the status quo during negotiations, preventing companies from unilaterally imposing pay cuts, mass layoffs, or other policy changes.

The conference, held within the historic Penns Landing area of Philadelphia, zeroed in on the upcoming Section 6 contract negotiations at industry giants United Airlines and American Airlines. These negotiations are set to redefine standards for pay, working conditions, and work-life balance for thousands, impacting both union and non-union workers, but are showing signs they may be lengthy.

Tom Regan, Airline Coordinator for the Machinists Union Air Transport Territory, and Mike Klemm, President and Directing General Chair of Machinists District 141, were among the luminaries who addressed the attendees.

The event was hosted by Larry Reeves from Local Lodge 1776 in Philadelphia.

Machinists Union District 141 includes 40,000 airline workers at American, Hawaiian, Philippine, Spirit, and United Airlines. The union’s reach in commercial aviation means that decisions made by union members will shape the rest of the industry.

The pandemic’s aftermath saw a strategic move by airlines to encourage senior agents towards early retirement. This strategy has led to a scenario where nearly half of all airline workers are relatively new to the industry. Many of these workers, coming from non-union professional backgrounds, are still acclimatizing to the nuances of the collective bargaining process and union dynamics. President Klemm’s call to action emphasized the need for seasoned committee members to mentor and engage these newcomers.
The conference also highlighted the altered dynamics between airlines and union grievance committees in the wake of the pandemic. With many workers being novices in the industry, there exists a gap between their union action expectations and the realistic outcomes. Addressing this gap is pivotal, according to District President Klemm.

Related News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Strength Through Solidarity: Grievance Committee Members Convene in Philadelphia

October 12, 2023

PHILADELPHIA – Hundreds of Grievance Committee Members from the Machinists Union gathered in Philadelphia to discuss the future of work in the airline industry.

A major focus of the deliberations was the upcoming contract negotiations at American and United Airlines, both of which are likely to fall under Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act, often referred to simply as “Section 6.”

Last year, Union Negotiators were optimistic that Section 6 could be avoided at United Airlines in favor of an expedited process that would have delivered an agreement to union members much faster. The carrier had initially agreed to keep the negotiations focused on a few contractual provisions deemed critical to front-line union members. Unfortunately, the company began using endless stalling tactics that threatened to drag negotiations out indefinitely, making the expedited process impossible.

Section 6 outlines the procedure for amending and renegotiating existing collective bargaining agreements in the airline and railroad sectors. Typically, Section 6 negotiations can take several years to complete.

The Railway Labor Act was initially established to prevent disruptions in interstate commerce due to strikes and other job actions that could create economic havoc. The Act mandates that both parties, in this case, the union and the airlines, engage in extended discussions once changes to the prevailing agreement are proposed. These changes can encompass rates of pay, rules, or working conditions. A critical aspect of Section 6 is its emphasis on maintaining the status quo during negotiations, preventing companies from unilaterally imposing pay cuts, mass layoffs, or other policy changes.

The conference, held within the historic Penns Landing area of Philadelphia, zeroed in on the upcoming Section 6 contract negotiations at industry giants United Airlines and American Airlines. These negotiations are set to redefine standards for pay, working conditions, and work-life balance for thousands, impacting both union and non-union workers, but are showing signs they may be lengthy.

Tom Regan, Airline Coordinator for the Machinists Union Air Transport Territory, and Mike Klemm, President and Directing General Chair of Machinists District 141, were among the luminaries who addressed the attendees.

The event was hosted by Larry Reeves from Local Lodge 1776 in Philadelphia.

Machinists Union District 141 includes 40,000 airline workers at American, Hawaiian, Philippine, Spirit, and United Airlines. The union’s reach in commercial aviation means that decisions made by union members will shape the rest of the industry.

The pandemic’s aftermath saw a strategic move by airlines to encourage senior agents towards early retirement. This strategy has led to a scenario where nearly half of all airline workers are relatively new to the industry. Many of these workers, coming from non-union professional backgrounds, are still acclimatizing to the nuances of the collective bargaining process and union dynamics. President Klemm’s call to action emphasized the need for seasoned committee members to mentor and engage these newcomers.
The conference also highlighted the altered dynamics between airlines and union grievance committees in the wake of the pandemic. With many workers being novices in the industry, there exists a gap between their union action expectations and the realistic outcomes. Addressing this gap is pivotal, according to District President Klemm.

Related

Domestic Abuse Awareness Day: Standing Together in Strength

Domestic Abuse Awareness Day: Standing Together in Strength

Domestic Abuse Awareness Day: Standing Together in Strength

Domestic Abuse Awareness Day: Standing Together in Strength

IAM141.org

Chicago, October 4th, 2023 – Machinists Union Local Lodge 1487 hosted a poignant Domestic Abuse Awareness Day event today, drawing a full house with standing room only. The event aimed to shed light on the various forms of abuse, some of which often go unnoticed, and to provide a platform for survivors to share their stories.

April Walker, President of the Local 1487 Women’s Committee, led the effort to organize the event, along with her fellowess Committee members Kimberly Smith, Larainen Brooks-Tyler, Deena Pena, and Nikia Peoples. As a union leader and staunch supporter of women’s issues, Walker emphasized the importance of solidarity among women. “Programs like this are important because they give women a chance to share our stories, to stand together in strength, and to let each other know that we are not alone,” she remarked.

The event was graced by the presence of Grammy-Award Nominated Gospel vocalist Kim Stratton. She delivered a heart-wrenching performance of her gospel hit, “More Than Enough,” after sharing a deeply moving personal story of her own experiences with abuse. Trapped in a toxic marriage, Statton recounted the challenges she faced, from a husband who tried to turn her children against her to his jealousy of her success. Today, she has transformed her “misery into ministry,” inspiring countless others with her resilience.

Sheerese Croft delivered a deeply moving account, shedding light on the pain she endured and her journey to healing and empowerment. “I’ve lived with this my whole life, but I’ve never spoke on it,” she began, capturing the attention of every attendee. The physical and emotional scars of her past were evident, but so was her resilience.

 Sheerese highlighted the facade many victims wear: “Everything might look good on the outside, but you have no idea what’s going on on the inside. I’ve put up a good front for years.” “I covered the scar on my back with a tattoo,” she shared, symbolizing her early efforts to hide her experiences.

Her decision to share her story at the event was a significant step in her healing journey. “Today, I’m here, sharing my truth,” she declared with determination. “I’m tired of hiding, tired of pretending. Today, I’m not scared anymore.”

The audience responded with strong support, reflecting the profound impact of her words and the shared experiences of many in the room.

Shelly Marsh, a Director of the award-winning WINGS Program, provided insights into the various forms of abuse, many of which remain hidden. These can include financial, cyber, and spiritual abuse. The WINGS Program aims to provide emergency housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end domestic violence. The program’s emergency shelters house those fleeing violent situations, offering refuge and critical services.

The event also saw the attendance of IAMAW District 141 Assistant General Chair Andrea’ Myers, who flew in from Detroit to show her support, further highlighting the event’s significance and the community’s solidarity.

Also in attendance was Machinists Union District Legislative Director David Roderick, who has been helping lead efforts to reduce cases of air rage, which disproportionately harm female gate agents and flight attendants. “People who think they can physically and verbally abuse our gate agents are the same people who think they can abuse their partners at home,” he said. “If we can help stop abuse behind closed doors, we will go a long way towards preventing abuse in public.”

Addressing the persistent challenge of domestic abuse, events such as this are pivotal in heightening awareness, providing vital support, and building a resilient community united against violence.

To learn how you can support the WINGS program and its mission to end domestic violence, visit their website at WINGSprogram.com. 

Related News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the District 141 of the Machinists Union

Domestic Abuse Awareness Day: Standing Together in Strength

October 4, 2023

Chicago, October 4th, 2023 – Machinists Union Local Lodge 1487 hosted a poignant Domestic Abuse Awareness Day event today, drawing a full house with standing room only. The event aimed to shed light on the various forms of abuse, some of which often go unnoticed, and to provide a platform for survivors to share their stories.

April Walker, President of the Local 1487 Women’s Committee, led the effort to organize the event, along with her fellowess Committee members Kimberly Smith, Larainen Brooks-Tyler, Deena Pena, and Nikia Peoples. As a union leader and staunch supporter of women’s issues, Walker emphasized the importance of solidarity among women. “Programs like this are important because they give women a chance to share our stories, to stand together in strength, and to let each other know that we are not alone,” she remarked.

The event was graced by the presence of Grammy-Award Nominated Gospel vocalist Kim Stratton. She delivered a heart-wrenching performance of her gospel hit, “More Than Enough,” after sharing a deeply moving personal story of her own experiences with abuse. Trapped in a toxic marriage, Statton recounted the challenges she faced, from a husband who tried to turn her children against her to his jealousy of her success. Today, she has transformed her “misery into ministry,” inspiring countless others with her resilience.

Sheerese Croft delivered a deeply moving account, shedding light on the pain she endured and her journey to healing and empowerment. “I’ve lived with this my whole life, but I’ve never spoke on it,” she began, capturing the attention of every attendee. The physical and emotional scars of her past were evident, but so was her resilience.

 Sheerest highlighted the facade many victims wear: “Everything might look good on the outside, but you have no idea what’s going on on the inside. I’ve put up a good front for years.” “I covered the scar on my back with a tattoo,” she shared, symbolizing her early efforts to hide her experiences.

Her decision to share her story at the event was a significant step in her healing journey. “Today, I’m here, sharing my truth,” she declared with determination. “I’m tired of hiding, tired of pretending. Today, I’m not scared anymore.”

The audience responded with strong support, reflecting the profound impact of her words and the shared experiences of many in the room.

Shelly Marsh, a Director of the award-winning WINGS Program, provided insights into the various forms of abuse, many of which remain hidden. These can include financial, cyber, and spiritual abuse. The WINGS Program aims to provide emergency housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end domestic violence. The program’s emergency shelters house those fleeing violent situations, offering refuge and critical services.

The event also saw the attendance of IAMAW District 141 Assistant General Chair Andrea’ Myers, who flew in from Detroit to show her support, further highlighting the event’s significance and the community’s solidarity.

Also in attendance was Machinists Union District Legislative Director David Roderick, who has been helping lead efforts to reduce cases of air rage, which disproportionately harm female gate agents and flight attendants. “People who think they can physically and verbally abuse our gate agents are the same people who think they can abuse their partners at home,” he said. “If we can help stop abuse behind closed doors, we will go a long way towards preventing abuse in public.”

Addressing the persistent challenge of domestic abuse, events such as this are pivotal in heightening awareness, providing vital support, and building a resilient community united against violence.

To learn how you can support the WINGS program and its mission to end domestic violence, visit their website at WINGSprogram.com. 

Related