Machinists Local 47 Endorses Shannon Bird for Congress

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2026

info@shannonbird.com

Machinists Local 47 Endorses Shannon Bird for Congress

Bird is One of the Most Labor Endorsed Congressional Candidates in America

Westminster, Colorado – Today, the International Association of Machinists Local 47, based in Commerce City in the Eighth Congressional District, endorsed Shannon Bird for Congress. 

Local 47’s endorsement adds to Bird’s impressive and rapidly growing labor coalition. She is the only labor-endorsed candidate in the race and one of the most labor-endorsed congressional candidates in America, with additional support from the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Association, Plumbers Local Union 3, Amalgamated Transit Union, ATU Local 1001, Heat & Frost Insulators Local 28, National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 642, SMART Locals 9 and 202, and Pipefitters Local 208.

“In the Colorado legislature, Shannon fought for good-paying jobs and championed the needs of working families, and we know she’ll do the same in Congress,” said Garry Harper, President of IAM Local 47. “Shannon will work tirelessly to pass the PRO Act, and we’re proud to stand with her.”

“I’m honored to have the endorsement of Machinists Local 47,” said Bird. “The work Machinists do touches nearly every facet of our lives, and in Congress, I’ll continue to champion the trades and deliver good-paying jobs to Colorado.” 

About Shannon Bird

Shannon was raised by a single mom and her grandmother, who dealt blackjack in Reno, Nevada, and used her tips to help Shannon get through college. They taught her how to work hard, give back and fight for what’s right.

With a passion for improving education for every student, Shannon started in public service by volunteering in her kids’ classrooms and co-founded an organization that empowers students, parents, teachers, and communities to create more equitable local schools. She led a bond measure campaign for the Adams 12 district in 2014 to fix and improve local schools, leading to her serving on the Westminster City Council and then in the Colorado State House, where she served for three years on the Joint Budget Committee.

Prior to serving in public office, Shannon worked in the private sector, practicing law in the fields of public and commercial finance, helping to get large community projects like roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals off the ground.

Shannon is committed to showing up for the people of Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, and working together to deliver real results for hardworking Coloradans and families – because that’s what she’s always done. Her campaign has earned the endorsement of over 165 leaders in the district and across Colorado, as well as the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Association, Plumbers Local Union 3, ATU & ATU Local 1001, Heat & Frost Insulators Local 28, NALC Branch 642, SMART Locals 9 and 202, Pipefitters Local 208, Machinists Local 47, Elect Democratic Women, EMILYs List, Welcome PAC, and The Bench.

PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA
29 de enero de 2026
info@shannonbird.com

Machinists Local 47 respalda a Shannon Bird para el Congreso
Bird es una de las candidatas al Congreso con más respaldos sindicales en los Estados Unidos

Westminster, Colorado – Hoy, la Asociación de Machinists Internacional Local 47, que está localizada en Commerce City dentro del Octavo Distrito Congresional, anunció su respaldo a Shannon Bird para el Congreso.

El respaldo de Local 47 se suma a la impresionante y rápidamente creciente coalición sindical de Bird. Es la única candidata con respaldo laboral en la contienda y una de las candidatas al Congreso con más respaldos sindicales en Estados Unidos, contando además con el apoyo de la International Association of Fire Fighters, la Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Association, Plumbers Local Union 3, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1001, Heat & Frost Insulators Local 28, National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 642, SMART Locals 9 y 202, y Pipefitters Local 208.

“En la legislatura de Colorado, Shannon luchó por empleos bien remunerados y defendió las necesidades de las familias trabajadoras. Sabemos que hará lo mismo en el Congreso”, dijo Garry Harper, presidente de IAM Local 47. “Shannon trabajará incansablemente para aprobar la Ley PRO, y estamos orgullosos de respaldarla”.

“Me honra contar con el respaldo de Machinists Local 47”, dijo Bird. “El trabajo que realizan los maquinistas impacta casi todos los aspectos de nuestra vida, y en el Congreso seguiré defendiendo a los oficios y generando empleos bien remunerados para Colorado”.

Sobre Shannon Bird

Shannon creció con su madre soltera y su abuela, quien trabajaba como crupier de blackjack en Reno, Nevada, y usaba sus propinas para ayudar a pagar los estudios universitarios de Shannon. Ellas le enseñaron el valor del trabajo duro, del servicio a los demás y de luchar por lo correcto.

Impulsada por su pasión por mejorar la educación para todos los estudiantes, Shannon comenzó su servicio público como voluntaria en las clases de sus hijos y cofundó una organización que empodera a estudiantes, padres, maestros y comunidades para crear escuelas locales más equitativas. En 2014 dirigió una campaña de bonos escolares en el distrito Adams 12 para reparar y mejorar escuelas locales, lo que la llevó a servir en el Concejo Municipal de Westminster y posteriormente en la Cámara Estatal de Colorado, donde integró durante tres años el Comité Conjunto de Presupuesto.

Antes de ocupar cargos públicos, Shannon trabajó en el sector privado como abogada en las áreas de finanzas públicas y comerciales, ayudando a impulsar grandes proyectos comunitarios como carreteras, puentes, escuelas y hospitales.

Shannon está comprometida a estar presente para la gente del Distrito 8 del Congreso de Colorado y a trabajar en conjunto para entregar resultados reales para las familias trabajadoras del estado—porque eso es lo que siempre ha hecho. Su campaña ha recibido el respaldo de más de 165 líderes del distrito y de todo Colorado, así como del International Association of Fire Fighters, Colorado Professional Fire Fighters Association, Plumbers Local Union 3, ATU, Heat & Frost Insulators Local 28, National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 642, SMART Local 9, SMART Local 202, Pipefitters Local 208, Asociación de Machinists Internacional Local 47, Elect Democratic Women, EMILYs List, Welcome PAC, y The Bench.

Para más información, visite ShannonBird.com y sígala en X, Bluesky, Facebook, y Instagram.

IAM Union Salutes Our Veterans: Honoring Service, Sacrifice, and Solidarity

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Dear IAM Union Family,

This Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada – and every day – we pause to honor and thank all those who have served our nation. We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women who have stood on the front lines to defend our freedom, protect our democracy, and the values we hold dear. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to service represent the very best of us.

The same dedication that drives our veterans to defend our nation is what fuels their determination to build a better future for working families when they return home. Their leadership, discipline, and unity strengthen our union and inspire us all to keep fighting for dignity, justice, and respect on the job.

This year, our union achieved an incredible milestone. Through the IAM Veterans Services Program, the IAM became the first and only labor union officially recognized as a national Veterans Service Organization (VSO) by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This historic designation highlights our union’s long-standing commitment to supporting those who have served in the military. It ensures that IAM military veterans and their families now have direct access to essential benefits, trusted representation, and a strong advocate to help them navigate the system they have honorably earned.

To all IAM Union veterans and to every veteran: Thank you!

Your courage and service remind us what true solidarity looks like. We may never be able to repay the full measure of your sacrifice, but we can and must honor it – by standing up for one another, by fighting for peace and fairness, and by ensuring that every veteran and their family receives the care, opportunity, and respect they deserve.

WATCH: A Veterans Day Message from the IAM Veterans Services Department

On behalf of the entire IAM Executive Council, we salute you.

In solidarity and gratitude – today and always,


Brian Bryant
IAM Union International President

BEST BUDDIES FRIEND WALK 2025

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Local 47 Assist in setup of the event
Local 47 start line
Setting up the event by Local 47
Cesar assisted in setup
Local 47 Paricipants
Best Buddies Friend Walk
Lots of booths and sponsors
Shivam Talwar our Sponsor delivering a memorial speech
Shivam Talwar is a remarkable young man
A grand affair
Groot and charactors of Starwars were attending

Special guest Robert “Bobby” Martinez appearance this Aprils’ meeting

Aside

Robert “Bobby” Martinez
General Vice President, Western Territory

Bobby was our special guest at this months meeting. During the meeting he had a few words for the attendees and took questions. It’s great to see a representative cares about the smaller shops, taking out time to visit. Mr. Martinez expressed an open door policy and explained how he started from the ground up. His knowledge and years of service prove valuable to his new role. We welcome Mr. Martinez back anytime.

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IAM Union: U.S. Tariffs on Canada Hurt Workers in Both Countries, Weaken Alliance in Trade Fight Against China, Others

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February 1, 2025

IAM Union: U.S. Tariffs on Canada Hurt Workers in Both Countries, Weaken Alliance in Trade Fight Against China, Others

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1, 2025 — Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump imposing a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods imported into the United States:

“The IAM is a strong advocate of trade policy that helps protect and grow jobs in the United States and Canada. This includes both nations working as allies, not enemies, with regards to policy to combat illegal trade practices by countries such as China.

“The IAM represents hundreds of thousands of members in the aerospace, defense and other manufacturing sectors in both countries. Many IAM members work at companies that rely heavily on integrated supply chains between the U.S. and Canada.”

“The 25% tariffs on Canadian goods imported to the U.S., will result in job losses, increased prices, and a variety of other negative impacts. This trade war action is unjust and should be reconsidered. 

“As we’ve stated in the past, the IAM supports tariffs when used properly. Tariffs are just one tool in the toolbox to combat wrongdoing by nations, such as China, that cheat global trade rules for an unfair advantage of the U.S. and Canada.

“The U.S. and Canada have a longstanding history of being close allies and working collaboratively to help level the global playing field. The Trump administration imposing tariffs on Canadian imports could reverse this partnership and ultimately lead to job losses for both nations.” 

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

“The IAM is a strong advocate of trade policy that helps protect and grow jobs in the United States and Canada. This includes both nations working as allies, not enemies, with regards to policy to combat illegal trade practices by countries such as China.

“The IAM represents hundreds of thousands of members in the aerospace, defense and other manufacturing sectors in both countries. Many IAM members work at companies that rely heavily on integrated supply chains between the U.S. and Canada.”

“The 25% tariffs on Canadian goods imported to the U.S., will result in job losses, increased prices, and a variety of other negative impacts. This trade war action is unjust and should be reconsidered. 

“As we’ve stated in the past, the IAM supports tariffs when used properly. Tariffs are just one tool in the toolbox to combat wrongdoing by nations, such as China, that cheat global trade rules for an unfair advantage of the U.S. and Canada.

“The U.S. and Canada have a longstanding history of being close allies and working collaboratively to help level the global playing field. The Trump administration imposing tariffs on Canadian imports could reverse this partnership and ultimately lead to job losses for both nations.” 

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

Celebrating Martin Luther King Day

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Dear IAM Family,

Dr. King dedicated his life to fighting for justice and equality for all. His hard work, sacrifices and leadership have inspired generations, and his message of hope and unity continues to resonate to this day.

As we pause to remember Dr. King’s extraordinary life and achievements, let us renew our commitment to building a fairer, more compassionate society that honors his vision of a world where all people are treated with dignity and respect.

The commemoration of MLK Day holds a significant place in our country as it is also marked as a National Day of Service. Active participation in service projects can bridge community divides and create positive change.

Justice on the job and service to the community are the guiding principles of the IAM, and as Dr. King famously said, “Everybody can be great… because anybody can serve.” IAM members across North America are putting this philosophy into action by serving their communities, not for themselves, but to build solidarity and support for those who need it most.

Let’s keep in mind that to achieve justice in our workplaces and communities, we must work towards advancing and embracing equality for all.

So, as your new International President, I was pleased to announce that our union is taking a significant step toward safeguarding civil and human rights. To this end, our IAM Human Rights Department has taken on its own identity within our Union, with its own leadership whose sole purpose is to advance the principles and practices of equality, as well as economic and social justice. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to upholding the values that our union stands for.

From the negotiating table to organizing workers for a better future, to ensuring equal and fair treatment for everyone, the IAM continues to honor Dr. King’s legacy today and every day.

In solidarity,

Brian Bryant
International President

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Dear IAM Family,

As we embrace this holiday season, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you. This is a time for reflection and gratitude, and I am truly thankful for the dedication and hard work you all contribute to the IAM.

We have faced numerous challenges, yet we stand united, stronger than ever. Our achievements over the past year remind us of the power of solidarity and the importance of supporting one another. 

As we look back on our recent convention, there is a wealth of accomplishments to celebrate—the significant milestones we achieved together and the spirited discussions that sparked innovative resolutions and amendments to our Constitution. Each deliberate step we take in welcoming new members into our fold, along with our commitment to advocating for the well-being of our existing members through effective bargaining and dedicated services, is paving the way for a brighter future. Together, we are not only strengthening our union but also enhancing the lives of the communities we are proud to serve.

As we think about the future, I am filled with hope and excitement for what lies ahead for the IAM. We will continue to stand up for those who need our support and champion the rights of working families. 

During this season of celebration, let’s keep in mind those who will be working while many of us are with our loved ones. Your sacrifices are deeply appreciated, ensuring that countless others can enjoy this special time. 

On behalf of the IAM Executive Council, I wish you and your families a warm, joyful, and safe holiday season. May this time bring you peace and happiness.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

Memorial for Cameron Lennox

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A memorial service will be held at the Denver Botanical Gardens on 12/14/2024, from 11am – 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Chloe’s Venmo @Chloe-Mays-1 that will be put in a fund for Cameron’s son Gerard.

Cameron Paul Lennox

Our beloved Cameron Lennox tragically left us on 11/23/2024 at the age of 33 when hit by a drunk driver.

Early Life and Education:
Cameron grew up in Flower Mound TX then moved to Lawrence KS where he went on to study for a degree in Business Administration from Haskell Indian Nations University.

Career and Achievements:
Cameron had an enriching career as a Lead Electrical Assembler at Stolle. Cameron played a significant role as a member of the EDT Committee and as a Brother of the Local Union IAMAW, No. 47. As a Lead, he worked diligently to help refine the ‘planning and pull schedules,’ as well as contribute to the process improvements for the Decorator. He was loved and appreciated by all that worked with him.

Family:
Cameron is survived by his loving wife, Chloe, and their soon to be born son Gerard. He was a devoted husband, embryo dad, son, grandson, brother, uncle, and friend.

Personal Qualities and Interests:
Cameron had a passion for knowledge. He would spend his time reading a variety of books, answering trivia questions, taking online classes, researching nuclear power, and many other avenues that struck his fancy at the time. He also loved his plants and animals spending hours watering and watching his plants and hours cuddling/ playing with our 2 cats and a dog. Recently, he was very into F1 racing and loved watching all the races. Watching football was also pretty high on the list of Camerons enjoyed activities. He was an avid Cowboys fan and then accumulated an appreciation for the chiefs too. Above everything he loved being around people, whether it be strangers we met watching an f1 race, spending time with his family, attending events with friends, chilling with his sister Erica, or going black friday shopping with his nieces.

Legacy:
Cameron’s outgoing loving energy touched everyone who knew him. Anecdotes from loved ones capture his love for life and the positive impact he had on those around him.

Local 47 represents at Guide Dogs Of America/Tender Loving Canine 2024 Las Vegas

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IAM, Supporters, and Service Dog Advocates Gather for the 2024 GDA | TLC Charity Week

Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC) brought together IAM members, supporters, and service dog advocates for a week of celebration and fundraising, held this year from Nov. 14–16, 2024, in Las Vegas. This year’s theme, “Happy Tails, Happy Trails,” echoed throughout the week, which was highlighted by donors’ generosity and an overwhelming commitment to changing lives.

The week kicked off with exciting events at the iconic Fremont Street Experience, including the Gene Woods Racing Experience and Axehole Vegas. Participants also enjoyed a sporting clay shoot at Clark County Shooting Complex, a golf tournament at the Revere Golf Club, and a heartwarming “Who Let the Dogs Out” meet-the-dog experience.

The main event, the charity banquet, took place in the Paris Hotel Ballroom. Guests wore flannels, boots, and jeans in a nod to this year’s camping-inspired dress code. The banquet featured the annual donation presentations, showcasing the extraordinary efforts of IAM Territories, Districts, and Locals, which organized fundraising events throughout the year. The fundraising events throughout 2024 have raised millions of dollars for this important IAM charity. 

 Comedian Rosie O’Donnell served as the emcee of the 43rd Annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet. O’Donnell is the primary handler of a service dog for her child with autism. After discovering GDA | TLC, O’Donnell started the process of getting her child the support of a dog from the GDA | TLC autism program.

 “Every dollar raised represents freedom, companionship, and a brighter future for someone in need,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Our IAM family’s unwavering support for GDA | TLC continues to change lives and inspire hope, one service dog at a time.”

During the 43rd Annual William W. Winpisinger Charity Banquet, GDA/TLC presented its “Gift of Sight Award” to IAM Canadian General Vice President David Chartrand and Michael’s of Brooklyn. Amy Mell, IAM Local 845 and Marianne DeSantis, IAM District 15 received the “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Kathy Carvalho of IAM District 98 and Caroline Ramos of the Canadian Office also received awards for their commitment and efforts of GDA | TLC fundraising efforts.

This annual award is given to recipients to honor their commitment and support on behalf of this charity that has changed the lives of many. 

The weekend also included a special celebration of GDA | TLC President Russ Gittlen’s retirement. At the Roast & Retirement Night, colleagues and friends gathered to share laughs and fond memories of Gittlen’s remarkable 37-year career. Known for his passion, leadership, and humor, Gittlen leaves behind an amazing legacy whose vision and dedication will continue to guide this organization for years to come. 

For more information about GDA | TLC or to donate, visit guidedogsofamerica.org.

View a photo gallery here.

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Dear IAM family,

As we observe Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada, it’s essential to take a moment to honor the brave individuals who have selflessly served our countries. Today and every day, we celebrate their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to protecting our freedoms.

These commemorative days serve as a powerful reminder of the many sacrifices made by those in the armed forces. It’s a chance for us to express our gratitude to veterans who have fought for our rights and liberties. Each one of them has a story: stories of courage, resilience, and the struggle to uphold the values we cherish.

As part of our commitment to giving back, the IAM Veterans Services Program offers support to Y.S. veterans and their families in accessing government benefits and resources at no cost. Veterans often encounter challenges when reintegrating into civilian life, and initiatives like this provide essential assistance to help them make a successful transition.

I commend all the IAM Districts and Locals across North America that continue to host and organize events and programs to support our veterans. I recently had the privilege of attending the IAM District 9 Annual Military Brunch in St. Louis, where we gathered to fundraise and pay tribute to our military veterans and families.

Today, let’s take a moment to reach out to the veterans in our lives, whether through a simple thank-you message or attending a local remembrance ceremony. Remember, our appreciation extends beyond just this day—it is a year-round commitment to honor and uplift our veterans and their families.

WATCH: Thanking Military Veterans in the IAM

To all veterans, thank you for your courage, strength, and dedication to keeping us safe. We owe you a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid, but we can strive to honor your service every day. 

Together, let’s ensure that the legacy of our heroes continues to inspire future generations.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

Honor the Spirit of Labor Day

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Dear IAM Family,

As we gather to celebrate Labor Day, let’s not just celebrate with a cookout or another day off but take time to truly honor the spirit that ignited this holiday over a century ago.

IAM Delegates from across North America are coming together this week for the 41st IAM Grand Lodge Convention in New York City, where, in 1882, the streets were filled with a parade of different labor unions, followed by a massive picnic where workers from all walks of life came together in solidarity. This was the birth of Labor Day, a tribute started by IAM member Matthew Maguire to honor the determination of working men and women who demanded fairness, safety, and respect in their workplaces.

Labor Day is a celebration of us and the communities we help thrive. It’s a powerful reminder that from those early parades to today’s picket lines, our collective voice, our unity, has the power to shape a better future. We are not alone in this fight. We are part of a larger movement, and our strength lies in our solidarity.

The fight for a national labor holiday echoed these same sentiments in Canada. In 1894, Prime Minister John Thompson’s government made Labor Day official, solidifying the recognition of workers’ contributions across the country.

Today, the IAM stands tall across North America, continuing the legacy of fighting for every worker, regardless of industry. We are united in our mission to secure fair wages, safe conditions, and the dignity every worker deserves.

According to Gallup’s annual survey of union favorability, 70% of Americans approve of labor unions, which is near a 60-year high.

Let’s celebrate our hard-won victories this Labor Day and recommit to the ongoing fight for justice. Our work is not done, and our commitment to securing fair wages, safe conditions, and the dignity every worker deserves is unwavering. Let’s use this day to reignite our determination and continue our fight.

Together, we’ll build a future where every worker’s voice is heard, every job is secure, and every family thrives.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

We Celebrate Memorial Day

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Dear IAM Family,

This weekend, we remember those who have given their lives for our freedoms.

For more than 136 years, IAM members have been integral parts of our communities. They have fought—and died—in every major American military mission since our founding in 1888. As a union with deep ties to our military, we will always remember, mourn, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

That’s why we provide best-in-class services to our military veterans, built an IAM monument to honor our military, and are incredibly proud that IAM members serve the interests of our armed forces each and every day.

This Memorial Day – and every day – we remember those who have given their lives for all of us.

Sincerely,

Brian Bryant
International President

The State of Our Union on the IAM’s 136th Birthday

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Dear IAM Family,

Happy 136th birthday to the IAM! It’s a testament to all of you, and all those who came before us, that our great union has risen from a railroad pit in Atlanta in 1888 to the powerful force for working people that we are today.

Since having the honor of becoming the IAM’s 15th International President on Jan. 1, myself and your Executive Council have hit the ground running to build on our successes.

We are listening to you – our membership. We are organizing and growing our union. We are embracing our diversity. Most of all, we are moving the IAM into an even brighter future.

Led by membership input gathered last year by the IAM Committee on the Future, myself and your Executive Council are already implementing changes to strengthen our union. We are working toward new ways of communicating with our members and branding our union, expanding mentorship and training opportunities, improving our union’s structure, and much more. 

And, our renewed focus on organizing is paying off. The IAM was amongst the fastest growing unions in 2023, and this year, we’ve already won campaigns to represent airline workers, healthcare professionals, artificial intelligence workers, manufacturing workers and more.

We are taking on employers big and small and winning record gains for our members. And, we are realizing our true potential by investing in the leadership of women and other under-represented groups through our new IAM Human Rights Department, and more.

As I continue to travel North America to meet our membership and hear your ideas, I am more hopeful than ever about the future of the IAM. Every day, we are moving closer to fulfilling our purpose of delivering security, dignity and opportunity for all.

Most of all, thank you to all of you for being a part of this journey. Together, we will continue to inspire, empower and create this more perfect union.

In solidarity,

Brian Bryant
International President

Resources for our Brothers and Sisters who were affected by the recent layoffs from Stolle Machinery

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Colorado Department of Labor
CDLE connects job seekers with great jobs, provides an up-to-date and accurate picture of
the economy to help decision making, assists workers who have been injured on the job,
ensures fair labor practices, helps those who have lost their jobs by providing temporary wage
replacement through unemployment benefits, and protects the workplace – and Colorado
communities – with a variety of consumer protection and safety programs.
https://cdle.colorado.gov/

Connect for Health Colorado
The Health Insurance Marketplace for Coloradans: Connect for Health
Colorado works to expand access, affordability and choice for individuals
purchasing health insurance throughout our state.
https://co.colorado.gov/access-connect-health-colorado-states-health-
insurance-marketplace

Cesar Alvarado 720-251-6855
Brandy Cronberg 303-921-9682
Garry Harper 720-490-2795

Machinists Union Celebrates Black History Month

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Machinists Union Celebrates Black History Month

February 2, 2023

https://www.youtube.com/embed/tNz06skng3E?width=640&height=360&autoplay&iv_load_policy=3&modestbranding=1&rel=0&showinfo=0&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goiam.org

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the fullness of African American history and culture while honoring the triumphs and struggles of African-Americans throughout U.S. history.

Black History Month has been celebrated since 1926 when Carter Woodson proclaimed a week in February “Negro History Week.” Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the entire month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada, also devote February to celebrating Black history in their respective countries.

The fight for equal rights still continues today. The IAM shares in that same fight, and has fought for Civil Rights even before the historic passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

IAM leaders knew racial equality could not be achieved without participation in every part of our union. IAM Shop Steward training played a critical role, and IAM leadership ensured a focus on recruiting and training African American men to become shop stewards going back to at least the 1950s. 

In January of 1963, Local 1781 in San Mateo, CA announced that a multiracial group of members successfully passed the Stewards Training Course. That same year, Local 1666 in Stamford, CT, had a basketball team comprised of eight players, six Black, and two white members. Teams like these continued throughout many lodges through the 1960s.

One act for justice can cause ripple effects that change the world. So don’t hesitate to get involved and support the labor movement’s push for equality. You can become a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) or the A. Philip Randolph Institute, constituency groups that work with unions to ensure the rights of our African-American brothers and sisters are protected. 

The Fighting Machinists continue to make impacts in the community and have had a large presence recently at the AFL Martin Luther King, Jr Civil, and Human Rights Conference and March.

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Dear IAM Family,

As the year comes to a close and we embrace the spirit of the holidays, I extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you and your families. Serving as your international president has been the greatest honor of my career, and as I approach retirement at the start of the new year, I reflect with immense gratitude on the journey we’ve shared.

It is with a deep sense of camaraderie that we’ve faced challenges and celebrated victories together. The solidarity that defines our union will undoubtedly continue to flourish under incoming International President Brian Bryant, and other new leaders.

It’s been my privilege to work alongside such passionate and committed individuals who strive for the betterment of workers everywhere. May the spirit of unity, compassion and understanding prevail, not only during these festive moments but throughout the years to come.

I wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Thank you for your trust and support. Here’s to the legacy we’ve built together and the bright future that awaits our union.

Sincerely,

Robert Martinez Jr.
International President

Join Us in Saying Thank You to Retiring International President Robert Martinez Jr.

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As many of you know, IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. is retiring on Jan. 1, 2024.

After more than 43 years of membership and eight years leading our great union, Bob’s legacy guiding the IAM will forever be remembered across the labor movement.

Bob’s leadership allowed the IAM to emerge from the pandemic with financial stability and historic membership growth through robust and innovative organizing, while putting the IAM in its strongest financial position in generations. Most of all, Bob has dedicated his life to this union and its membership.

We wanted to give everyone the chance to say “thank you, Bob.”

Click here to send Bob a happy retirement message and thank him for his leadership of the IAM.

Bob has also been a true trailblazer for our union. He’s the first Latino international president of a major American labor union in the history of the American labor movement, the first Latino elected to the IAM Executive Council, and the first international president of color in the history of the IAM.

Through Bob’s leadership, the IAM has grown into new industries, including healthcare professionals, gig workers, tech workers, veterinary technicians, museum workers, architectural workers and more. Using new organizing tactics and strategies, the IAM was the leading AFL-CIO affiliate in National Labor Relations Board union election victories from 2018 through 2022.

At Bob’s direction, the IAM also created groundbreaking membership programs that assist members and their families, as well as expanded opportunities for underrepresented groups to advance in the IAM. Martinez commissioned a new department to provide IAM members and their families who are military veterans with VA claims assistance free of charge, as well as an addiction services program and a women’s leadership initiative.

Bob has long been a leading voice for domestic manufacturing, especially for defense production. He has led the charge to increase “Buy American” standards. He made history by initiating a rank-and-file membership vote for the IAM’s endorsement for U.S. president in 2020, and again this year.

And as chair of the 39th and 40th IAM Grand Lodge Conventions, Bob presided over delegate action to pass a Membership Bill of Rights, greatly expand resources for organizing, increase strike benefits, implement electronic meetings, and launch a Committee on the Future to listen to our members and chart the IAM’s next chapter.

We’re so proud of Bob, and excited for the IAM’s next chapter under the leadership of our next International President, Brian Bryant.

Please join us in wishing International President Martinez a great and well-earned retirement.

Happy Thanksgiving Brother and Sisters

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Dear IAM Family,

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. To the 600,000 IAM members who placed their trust in me as International President, I am genuinely thankful. But most of all, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who are making a positive impact in the lives of others, no matter how big or small. Your contributions are truly making a difference, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

We are sincerely grateful for you and all IAM dedicated members in essential industries such as aerospace, transportation, federal government, automotive, defense, woodworking, and more. These industries thrive during the bustling holiday season thanks to your hard work. 

As we celebrate Thanksgiving with our loved ones, let’s pause and express our appreciation for the hardworking people who make our communities and country move forward. Their tireless efforts enable us to relish in cherished traditions and forge unforgettable memories year after year.

IAM family, your dedication and tenacity have and continue to leave a strong mark on our union and myself. Your hard work will always serve as an inspiration to us all.

On behalf of the IAM Executive Council, I wish you all a happy, healthy and safe Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Robert Martinez Jr.
International President

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Dear Sisters, Brothers, and Friends of the IAM,

Juneteenth is recognized as a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. A holiday that remembers June 19, 1866, when Black Texans gathered to celebrate the first anniversary of the ending of slavery. This day marked the end of an ugly chapter in American history and a new beginning for Black Americans and their quest for equality.

This day is a reminder that the fight continues for democracy and economic justice for all Americans. Our union has played a part in dismantling the barriers that keep everyone from fully participating in our society. 

The collective bargaining agreements we have fought for over the years have been an essential tool that allows everyone to succeed economically and confront any threats to their futures. Threats like the erosion of voting rights, which the labor movement is working to protect by highlighting harmful legislation.

We must all come together and fight for workers’ rights. The best way to achieve that goal is to embrace and celebrate our diversity.

Our union has recognized the importance of racial justice in and outside of the workplace over the years. We fight hard to ensure it’s essential to our collective bargaining agreements. Racial justice and economic justice go hand in hand. 

Please take this holiday to reflect on how far we have come and the work needed in the future to achieve racial and economic equality for all.

In solidarity,

Robert Martinez Jr.
IAM International President