For more than five decades, IAM Air Transport Local 1833 has maintained a presence at the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion during the Minnesota State Fair. The pavilion operates throughout the entire 12-day fair, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about union membership and meet members from various trades.
IAM Local 1833 is one of several unions participating in the event, alongside organizations such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA. Their booth features displays related to the airline industry, including model airplanes and a donut press donated by an IAM Business Representative. The booth also pays tribute to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines and serves as a meeting place for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers interested in union representation.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport General Vice President, commented on the union’s involvement: “Our members in Minnesota show the true spirit of the labor movement at the state fair. 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.”
Mary Sansom, President of IAM Local 1833, described her long-standing participation: “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. It’s a great time building solidarity with family, friends, and union family.”
The IAM Union encourages all workers to visit their booth at next year’s fair to engage with union members and learn more about collective action.
