IAM members from across Alabama convened in Huntsville for the IAM Union Alabama State Council meeting, bringing together union leaders, community partners, and political candidates to address issues affecting working families in the state.
The event began with a welcome from Huntsville City Council Member Michelle Watkins. Delegates heard from a range of speakers on topics such as legislative priorities, organizing initiatives, and strategies for increasing political engagement. Discussions focused on protecting service contract jobs, growing manufacturing employment, supporting union rights, and amplifying the voices of workers at both state and federal levels.
Rickie Langford, President of the IAM Union Alabama State Council, said, “When working people in Alabama stand together, there is no force more powerful. This meeting was about uniting our voices and building our strength across the political aisles for the road ahead.”
Among those addressing the council were State Representatives Anthony Daniels and Laura Hall, Dr. Will Boyd (candidate for Governor), U.S. Representative Brandon Moore (candidate for U.S. Senate), and several IAM officials including Loren Almeroth, DeLane Adams, Nicole Fears, Frederick Ross, Pam Evans, Helena Thornton, as well as Galen Bullock of EBS and Pat Keahey of Keahey Law Firm. Jacob Morrison, President of the North Alabama Area Labor Council (AFL-CIO), also spoke.
Speakers discussed the current challenges and opportunities for Alabama workers and reaffirmed the IAM’s commitment to advocating for labor interests throughout the state. Delegates were also updated on the ongoing government shutdown and IAM’s efforts to secure back pay for federal contract workers impacted by the situation in Washington.
The Alabama State Council continues to influence the IAM’s legislative and political activities statewide. Attendees concluded the meeting with a renewed commitment to mobilize for worker interests.
The Alabama State Council Executive Board includes Rickie Langford (President), Gavin Brunner (Secretary Treasurer), James Tate (VP North), Joe Cleveland (VP North), Anthony Holton (VP South), and Michelle Hunt (VP South).
