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
Helping Hands May: Starting Family Conversations
Mensaje en Español ///IAM Peer Volunteers: Because of the pandemic, we are seeing in up tic in anxiety, depression and substance abuse disorders (SUD). SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency, has some great resources for families who have...
Keepers of the Flame: Don Villar and the Chicago Federation of Labor
Don V VillarDon Villar was born into the labor movement and spirit of social justice. Dave talks with Don V. Villar, Secretary-Treasurer of the Chicago Federation of Labor about the city’s important role in labor history and how it drives their commitment to today’s...
Hurry! There’s Still Time to Enter The 2021 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Contest
Dear Member of IAM District Lodge 141: We are writing to inform you about a special benefit offered by IAM District Lodge 141: the Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship. Each year, our District awards several scholarships to qualified and deserving members — or their...