IAM Union members and their allies from the labor and community sectors gathered in Baltimore for the 2026 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference. The event focused on economic justice, voting rights, and equality for working people.
The four-day conference, titled “Honoring Our History — Fighting for Our Future,” included plenary sessions, workshops, and panels that addressed issues such as artificial intelligence’s impact on workers, federal services under the current administration, and union-led support models for immigrant workers.
Attendees included members of the IAM Executive Council: International President Brian Bryant, General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes, Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan, Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, and Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez.
Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized the need to respond to challenges facing workers’ rights. IAM members also held a caucus meeting where they discussed their experiences at the event and reaffirmed their commitment to bringing back what they learned to their local unions.
“I am inspired by the turnout from our membership at this important conference,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “As Dr. King taught us, we must embrace this significant moment in history and move forward to ensure workers receive justice and dignity. Participating in this conference ensures IAM members continue to honor Dr. King’s legacy by standing up for equality, democracy, and the rights of all working people.”
General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes presented the Bill Lucy Eyes on the Prize Award at a gala during the conference to Metropolitan Baltimore Labor Council President Courtney Jenkins. The award recognizes young union leaders who motivate others through their leadership.
“This moment calls for courage guided by love,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears. “IAM members are stepping beyond the shop floor and rising together as Human Rights leaders.”
