IAM Air Transport Local 1833 continued its longstanding participation at the Minnesota State Fair, representing the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at the AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion. For over five decades, Local 1833 has used this venue to engage with the public about union membership and showcase the role of unions in Minnesota’s workforce.
The House of Labor Pavilion operates throughout all 12 days of the fair, offering live music, union exhibits, and educational outreach. Alongside IAM Local 1833, numerous other unions such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA also took part in this collaborative effort.
At their booth, IAM Local 1833 highlighted their ties to the airline industry with displays that included model airplanes and a donut press donated by an IAM Business Representative. The booth also paid tribute to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines. It served as a gathering place for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers to meet coworkers and discuss union representation.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport General Vice President, stated: “Our members in Minnesota show the true spirit of the labor movement at the state fair. 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.”
Mary Sansom, President of IAM Local 1833, described her experience: “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. It’s a great time building solidarity with family, friends, and union family.”
The IAM Union encourages working people to visit their booth at next year’s Minnesota State Fair to connect with union members and learn more about collective action.
