MANY VOICES – ONE UNION – ONE IAM
Hundreds of IAM members from across Canada and the United States gathered in Chicago for the 2026 IAM Women’s & Young Workers Conference, held September 19–23 at the Palmer House Hilton.
With the theme “Emerging Leaders Building the Labor Movement of the Future,” the conference focused on leadership, education, solidarity and action. It also marked the 30th anniversary of the IAM Women’s Department, established in Chicago in 1996.
Building the Next Generation of Leaders
Members from across the IAM shared experiences, built connections and took part in workshops, panels and discussions on organizing, activism and issues facing workers today.
Women and young workers also had opportunities to develop leadership skills, exchange ideas and explore ways to strengthen their locals, workplaces and communities.
Workers Take Their Voice to the Streets
On September 21, conference attendees joined the Workers vs. Billionaires rally at Congress Plaza Garden.
IAM and labour leaders spoke about issues affecting working people and the importance of workers having a strong voice in their workplaces and communities.
Speakers included IAM International President Brian Bryant, Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli, and Women’s & Young Workers Department Director Dee Colbert.
Different Workplaces. Different Communities. One IAM.
The conference showcased the strength of workers coming together to learn, organize and build solidarity.
Post credit – IAM District 78
IAM Local 1231 Delegates reports :
Shante Howitt – Chief Steward Peel
History has always been made by working people standing together, and this conference brought IAM members from all over the world together to celebrate 30 years since the 1996 convention’s commitment to developing women leaders.
The first day was led by powerful voices who had a lot to share about what it means to be a leader in a changing workplace, giving young workers a real voice, and recognizing the important work women have done within this union over the years. It was also inspiring to learn about the many female leaders who have helped shape our union.
A few words from Dora Cervantes that really stood out to me were:
“Prepare yourself, step forward and speak up.”
“You do not need to wait your turn to make a difference.”
“Solidarity must include everyone.”
Dee Colbert also shared some words that really stuck with me: “Some may never be recognized for what they deserve to be recognized for,” and there will always be people who tell young workers that they are not ready.This conference was an amazing experience. I gained a lot of knowledge, learned more about the history of our union, and left feeling empowered and inspired to continue growing as a leader.I’m truly grateful for the experience and the opportunity to be part of it.
Lystra Mohammed – Secretary Treasurer
The conference started of very energetic and enthusiastic everyone was excited and eager to see what’s coming up next. The speakers were great. FROM THE PANEL DISCUSSIONS TO THE BREAK OUT SESSIONS IT WAS 3 DAYS OF LEARNING AND ABSORBING ALL YOU CAN GET FROM THE CONFERENCE.
HIGHLIGTS FROM THE SPEAKERS
Bobby Martinez with the invocation speaking about YOU MATTERS, and the 5 women who mentor him for his career. Never make a promise you cannot keep.
Sam Cicinelli : IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President: Thank you for investing your time and energy. Chicago is a sacred ground in the history of the IAM movement. This is your moment to take the torch.
Dora Cervantes IAM General Secretary Treasurer: This is the IAM family we stand together we fight together we never leave any one behind. Solidarity comes in every colour.
Dee Colbert IAM Women’s and Young Workers Director: This conference has everyone finger print on it if you stand with workers, workers will stand with you, it you attack us YOU WILL GET THE WRATH OF IAM MEMBERS. Know that you have the power all along. I don’t need permission. I know my purpose.
Brian Bryant IAM International President: Young workers You are now, we need your voices now, courage and energy now .Your voice matters in this union.
Michell Pyne – Trustee
The conference focus on Emerging Leaders Building the Labor Movement of the future.
It was very informative with a lot of emphasis on Organization within the union as Women and young worker. Keep in mind that we have a voice ” we’re not just listening, we’re sharing our experiences. Challenging ideas, and finding ways to make a difference in our Local. The breakout rooms provide information that guides you to build power one conversation at a time and use learn to use the SWOT Analysis: Strength
Weakness
Opportunities
Threats.
Ask Anyway ” Be curious not Judgemental” and remember you don’t need permission to know your purpose.
“Solidarity includes everyone” A union for all that except you for who you are. Stop the Division. Quoted by Dora Cervantes.
Juliana Aboagye-Kusi – Conductor Sentinenl
The 2026 IAM Women and Young Workers Conference was Fantastic. This Conference will bring the Members together in Chicago. This conference did also provide an opportunity for the young Workers and Women to connect,Learn, and share their experiences and strengthen their involvement in the union.and the attendees will also celebrate the anniversary of the IAM Women’s Department with the Bling Fling Reception Was very Excited and Entertaining to be part of it and l am very proud and thankful.
Drupati Bazil – Recording Secretary
It was a blast!
The IAM Women’s & Young Workers Conference was held in Chicago, Illinois, from September 19–23, 2026. The conference brought together IAM members from across Canada and the United States under the theme “Emerging Leaders Building the Labor Movement of the Future.” Among those in attendance were GVP David Chartrand, International Representative Kim Valliere, President Merry St. Bernard, and members of the Local 1231 Women’s Committee.
The main focus of the conference was on leadership development, organizing, union activism, solidarity, and encouraging greater participation of women and young workers in the labour movement. Members participated in educational workshops, presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen leadership skills and prepare the next generation of union activists.
One of the highlights was celebrating the 30th anniversary of the IAM Women’s Department, which was established in 1996 in Chicago. This milestone provided an opportunity to recognize three decades of women’s participation and leadership within the IAM.
There was also a “Bling Fling” reception on September 20 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Women’s Department.
On Monday, September 21, conference participants also joined the Workers vs. Billionaires rally at Congress Plaza Garden in Chicago. Speakers included IAM International President Brian Bryant, Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli, and Women’s & Young Workers Department Director Dee Colbert.
Overall, the conference was a valuable and enjoyable experience. It provided members with an opportunity to share knowledge, ideas, and experiences, learn from one another, strengthen leadership skills, and build solidarity with fellow IAM members. The experience and knowledge gained will be valuable as we continue to strengthen and support our Local 1231 membership.