IAM members, retirees, and staff joined other union women and allies in San Diego, California for the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention. The event aimed to strengthen women’s roles in the labor movement, unions, communities, and workplaces.
A significant moment for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at this convention was the transition of leadership within CLUW. Julie Frietchen, who served as IAM’s Women and Young Workers Director and as Vice President of CLUW for IAM, handed over her position to Demetress Colbert. Colbert will take on the role of IAM Women and Young Workers Director starting January 1, 2026.
“I want the IAM to build our presence and activism in CLUW,” said Colbert. “I’m excited to take on this role and recruit more sisters to become active in CLUW, to carry what they learn back to their unions, to build the courage to take on leadership positions, and to lift up fellow women.”
At the convention, delegates elected new vice presidents representing each participating union. Demetress Colbert ran unopposed for IAM’s seat with support from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from Communications Workers of America was chosen as CLUW National President.
Before the official start of the convention, attendees participated in workshops addressing topics such as women workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, health and well-being, women’s history in labor movements, and organizing strategies.
Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President, highlighted the impact of these sessions: “The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie. In addition to tending to the business of the Convention, passing resolutions and constitutional amendments, we were able to discuss challenges in the workplace specific to women and how we can support ourselves and each other.”
Dora Cervantes, IAM General Secretary-Treasurer who has been active with CLUW for years but could not attend due to union commitments, addressed attendees via video message. “First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ Cervantes said. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes also acknowledged Frietchen’s contributions: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” she said. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
Delegates voted on resolutions intended to guide CLUW’s mission over the next two years.
Frietchen emphasized the importance of gatherings like this: “It’s very important for women to come together in a space like this where we can connect with each other, share experiences, and support one another in the challenges we face as working women especially as workers’ and women’s rights are under attack,” she said. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
About 400 delegates from major unions across North America attended this year’s convention.
