Justice for All: IAM Representative Discusses Union Values and Inclusivity
Larry Bickett, a business representative for IAM District W24, has raised concerns about the current state of inclusivity and solidarity within unions. In an article published in the District W24 newsletter and Northwest Labor Press, Bickett reflected on changes in societal attitudes toward hate and bigotry.
“There was a time when hate and bigotry were clearly recognized for what they are: harmful, divisive, and unacceptable. While those attitudes certainly existed in the past, I want to believe they were not normalized or openly celebrated in the way they seem to be today. Watching that shift has been troubling, and it raises an important question about who we are becoming,” Bickett wrote.
He emphasized that his reflection is focused on values rather than political affiliations. “This reflection is not about political parties or labels. It is about values,” he stated.
Bickett highlighted the Machinists Union’s commitment to inclusivity. “I believe the Machinists Union strives to be inclusive. I also believe the IAM recognizes everyone as equal and refuses to single anyone out because of the color of their skin, who they love, how they worship, or where they come from. The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect.”
He posed questions regarding unity among union members: “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?”
Bickett reiterated that supporting people’s rights has always been central to the labor movement and is not tied to any particular political party but belongs to working people broadly.
Quoting the IAM Union’s mission statement, he said: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.”
Bickett outlined core values supporting 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.”
He called upon union members to uphold these principles even during challenging times. “If these are truly our mission and our values, then we must live by them—not only when it is easy, but when it is uncomfortable.”
Bickett continued: “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.”
“Solidarity means standing together even when we don’t agree on everything,” he added.
“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.”
“This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in,” Bickett concluded.
“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.”
