Today marks Human Rights Day, and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Human Rights Department is reflecting on its activities over the past year.
According to a statement from the department, “This year, our IAM Human Rights Department made meaningful strides, including hosting an impactful IAM Human Rights Conference and continuing to show up through our constituency groups to ensure our members’ voices are heard and valued.”
The department emphasized that its commitment to human rights extends beyond this annual observance. “As a union, we don’t just acknowledge human rights one day a year, we practice them every day. Every grievance filed, every contract enforced, every policy challenged, and every member supported represents our commitment to worker dignity, fairness, and safety. Human rights live in our fight for safe work environments, equal treatment, and the right for every worker to be respected on and off the job,” the statement read.
IAM highlighted that its organizational values are rooted in justice. “Our union values are grounded in justice. IAM Circular 888 confirms the right for each Local to have a Human Rights presence, creating space for education, advocacy, and accountability within our own membership.”
Looking ahead, the department encouraged greater participation at the local level: “As we look ahead, we encourage more Locals to tap into what Human Rights work can look like at the local level. Strong locals build strong members, and strong members protect each other.”
The message concluded by reaffirming the importance of unity in advancing human rights: “We move forward with unity, compassion, and dedication today and every day because human rights are not optional, they are essential.”
