IAM Air Transport Local 1833 has maintained a presence at the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion during the Minnesota State Fair for over five decades. The pavilion, open throughout the 12-day fair, provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about union membership and meet representatives from various labor organizations across Minnesota.
The event features participation from many unions such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA. IAM Local 1833’s booth showcases its ties to the airline industry with model airplanes and other displays. The booth also includes a donut press donated by an IAM Business Representative and a tribute to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines.
The space has served as a meeting point for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers to engage with coworkers about union representation.
“Our members in Minnesota show the true spirit of the labor movement at the state fair,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “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.”
IAM Local 1833 President Mary Sansom described her long-standing involvement with the event. “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,” said Sansom. “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 connect with union members and learn more about collective action.
