IAM Air Transport Local 1833 continued its long-standing tradition of participating in the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion at the Minnesota State Fair. For over five decades, the local has represented the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at this event, engaging with fairgoers to discuss union membership and labor issues.
The pavilion operates throughout the 12-day duration of the state fair, offering live music, educational outreach, and displays from various unions. IAM Local 1833 is joined by other labor organizations such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA.
At their booth, IAM Local 1833 showcases their ties to the airline industry with model airplanes and a donut press donated by an IAM Business Representative. The display also features a tribute to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines. The booth has served as a meeting point for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers to connect with colleagues interested in union representation.
“Our members in Minnesota show the true spirit of the labor movement at the state fair,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “By connecting directly with the public, educating them about the value of union membership, and standing in solidarity with other unions, they are helping strengthen the voice of working people everywhere.”
IAM Local 1833 President Mary Sansom described her long involvement with the event: “I have been doing the state fair for at least 20 years, and the best part is seeing my brothers and sisters at the AFL-CIO Pavilion, making new friends, and supporting one another,” said Sansom. “It’s a great time building solidarity with family, friends, and union family.”
The IAM Union encourages all workers to visit their booth at next year’s state fair to connect and celebrate worker solidarity.
