Why the Machinists Honor Juneteenth
GoIAM.org
19 June 2022
Dear Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the IAM,
We have had a whole year to prepare our nation for Juneteenth as a federal holiday. A holiday that remembers June 19, 1866, the day Afro-Texans gathered to commemorate the first anniversary of the ending of slavery.
This was acknowledged and celebrated across America throughout African-American communities. It signaled a new start to a brighter future. Many of these celebrations gave rise to fighting for workers’ rights.
Our union is committed to ensuring that we never forget the successes and failures of our past. It helps us as our nation continues to fight against racism and against the erosion of civil rights. This holiday allows us to reflect on how we can better serve our community, fellow citizens, and union.
We can celebrate Juneteenth by recognizing how far we have come together and how much work we have to do in our society. Our union is always at its best when celebrating our diversity, and on this Juneteenth, we will fight to ensure every one of us is respected and treated with dignity.
In solidarity,
Robert Martinez Jr.
IAM International President
Related News
141 Report: Meet the Scholarship Judges
The Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest awards a top prize of $2,000, and $1,000 to six additional applicants. District 141 members enjoy many benefits besides those enshrined in our contracts, and today’s 141 Report features the Adolph Stutz Memorial...
Hawaiian Airlines Negotiations Update
[supsystic-social-sharing id='4']Hawaiian Airlines Negotiations UpdateAloha Sisters and Brothers of Hawaiian Airlines,In April, we informed you that we would begin meeting with Hawaiian Airlines to continue limited issue, expedited negotiations. We have made good on...
Here’s How JetBlue Ground Ops Can Get Pay, Benefits, Positions Back
[supsystic-social-sharing id='3']There's no substitute for full union rights and collective bargaining when company executives try to cut pay, jobs, and positions. But, that doesn't mean non-union workers are completely helpless. They can still organize. And, when...