In a rousing address at the IAM 41st Grand Lodge Convention, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler lauded the remarkable resilience, unity, and recent victories of IAM members, setting a tone of optimism and solidarity for the labor movement’s future.
“But if you look around right now something amazing is happening. All over this country workers are reclaiming their power,” said Shuler “Workers are realizing: There is a way to fight back, there is a way to come together and win, there is a better life out there, and it’s better in a union!”
Shuler’s speech was a powerful homage to the spirit of inclusivity and mutual support that defines the labor movement. She underscored the importance of labor’s role in the current political landscape, noting significant engagements with political figures and the increasing visibility of unions in national discussions.
“Labor is being respected in this country again, we are seen as a force to be reckoned with,” said Shuler. “We are growing our power in a way we haven’t seen in a generation.”
Addressing the challenges workers continue to face, from financial hardships to the significant disparities in earnings between workers and CEOs, Shuler called for a reinvigorated push towards fairness and systemic change. She emphasized that the fight for equity in the workplace is far from over but remains a central pillar of the labor movement’s agenda.
The AFL-CIO President did not miss the opportunity to celebrate the labor movement’s tangible successes and historical achievements, especially highlighting the efforts of IAM members.
“It’s happened because for years and years … folks in this room have done the hard work on the ground — organizing, and taking on big fights, and showing people: They have a home in this movement,” said Shuler.
From organizing campaigns at major companies like Delta Air Lines to innovative strategies among rail workers, these successes exemplify the power of collective action and the important gains that can be achieved through unity and perseverance.
“We all have that power individually as workers, no matter our division,” continued Shuler. “When we come together, when we show solidarity, we cannot be stopped.”
The post “When We Show Solidarity, We Cannot be Stopped” – AFL-CIO President Shuler Champions Union Solidarity and Strength appeared first on IAMAW.