For more than 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 central location where visitors can learn about union membership, meet workers from various trades, and see how unions contribute to Minnesota’s labor movement.
The House of Labor Pavilion remains open throughout all 12 days of the fair. It features live music, displays from different unions, and educational outreach activities. IAM Local 1833 is joined by other unions such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA.
At their booth, IAM Local 1833 showcases its ties to the airline industry with 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. The booth serves as a meeting place for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers to connect with coworkers and discuss 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.”
IAM Local 1833 President Mary Sansom described her long-standing involvement: “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.”
The IAM Union encourages all workers to visit the House of Labor Pavilion at next year’s Minnesota State Fair.
