For over five decades, members of IAM Air Transport Local 1833 have represented the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion during the Minnesota State Fair. The pavilion acts as a meeting point for fair attendees to learn about union membership, meet members from various trades, and observe Minnesota’s labor movement.
Open throughout all 12 days of the fair, the House of Labor Pavilion features live music, educational outreach, and displays from multiple unions. IAM Local 1833 participates alongside organizations such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, CWA, among others.
The booth run by IAM Local 1833 focuses on its links to the airline industry with items like model airplanes and a donut press donated by an IAM Business Representative. There is also a tribute to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines. Additionally, Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers have used the booth as a space to connect with coworkers and learn more about 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.”
Mary Sansom, President of IAM Local 1833, commented on 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,” said Sansom. “It’s a great time building solidarity with family, friends, and union family.”
IAM Union has encouraged all workers to visit their booth at next year’s Minnesota State Fair to celebrate collective action among working people.
