IAM members, retirees, and staff joined other union members and allies in San Diego, California for the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention. The event focused on strengthening women’s roles within unions, communities, and workplaces.
A significant moment for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) at this year’s convention was the transition of leadership within CLUW. Julie Frietchen, IAM’s current Women and Young Workers Director, handed over her role as elected Vice President of CLUW for IAM to Demetress Colbert. Colbert is set to become the IAM Women and Young Workers Director on 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 was elected unopposed as vice president for IAM with endorsement from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from Communications Workers of America (CWA) was chosen as CLUW National President.
Before official proceedings began, attendees participated in workshops covering topics such as women workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, health improvement strategies, labor history related to women, and organizing basics for CLUW members.
Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President commented on the workshops: “The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie,” she said. “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, General Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Union who has been involved with CLUW for years but could not attend due to union responsibilities, sent a video message: “First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ said Cervantes. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes also acknowledged Julie Frietchen’s work: “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 that will guide CLUW’s mission for the next two years.
“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,” said Frietchen. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
Approximately 400 people attended this year’s convention including delegates from major North American unions.
