Justice for All: IAM Union Representative Reflects on Values of Inclusivity and Solidarity
Larry Bickett, a business representative from IAM District W24, has expressed concern about the current climate of division and intolerance in society. In an article published in the District W24 newsletter with Northwest Labor Press, Bickett noted that while hate and bigotry have always existed, they appear to be more openly accepted today.
“This reflection is not about political parties or labels. It is about values,” Bickett wrote.
He emphasized that the Machinists Union (IAM) aims to be inclusive and recognizes all individuals as equals, regardless of their background or identity. “The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect,” he stated.
Bickett questioned whether union members still uphold these principles. “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?” he asked.
He reiterated that the labor movement’s mission has always been to defend people’s rights, especially those who cannot advocate for themselves. According to Bickett, this purpose transcends political affiliations and belongs to working people as a whole.
Quoting the IAM Union’s mission statement, Bickett said: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.”
He outlined core values that support this mission:
Solidarity — the belief that workers must unite collectively to fight for their rights and improve their standard of living.
Justice — a commitment to fair and equitable treatment on the job and in the community.
Dignity and Respect — demanding that all members are treated with dignity, without fear of retaliation or unjust treatment.
Accountability — upholding responsible leadership and governance within the union.
Excellence — striving for the highest standards in training, education, and representation.
Ethics — operating with integrity in all actions and negotiations.
Diversity and Equity — promoting an inclusive workplace and an equitable labor landscape for all.
Bickett urged union members to live by these values consistently. “No one should be placed above another. We should never tear down our fellow brothers, sisters, siblings, or members of our community because they think differently or live differently. Disagreement does not require dehumanization. Strength does not require cruelty,” he wrote.
He added: “Solidarity means standing together even when we don’t agree on everything.”
“Justice means speaking up—especially when it is hard.”
“Dignity and respect mean recognizing the humanity in every person.”
“Unity does not mean uniformity. It means respect. It means fairness.”
“And it means remembering that what binds us together is stronger than what tries to pull us apart.”
Bickett concluded by affirming his belief in these principles both within his union work and as part of his vision for America: “This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in.”
“When we strive to live by these principles—not as Democrats or Republicans, not as Conservatives, Liberals, Independents, or other Parties but as unionists—we are at our best. And when we do, we can still make the world a better place for all of us.”
