Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) from across Missouri gathered in Jefferson City for the IAM Missouri State Council, according to an April 7 announcement. The event focused on advocating for working family issues and defending the rights of workers.
The meeting comes at a time when efforts are underway to change Missouri’s referendum process, which union members say could allow corporate interests to promote “right-to-work” laws that would weaken unions and lower wages. The council highlighted its opposition to these changes as a central issue.
During the conference, IAM members lobbied state legislators on key topics including stopping paycheck deception bills, strengthening workforce development programs, raising the minimum wage, and resisting attempts to relax child labor laws. Attendees also received updates from various departments within IAM such as the International President’s Office, Midwest Territory, Political and Legislative Department, and Communications Department.
The event included participation from other unions affiliated with the Missouri AFL-CIO. Delegates heard remarks from bipartisan lawmakers who support worker rights including Senate Democratic Leader Doug Beck; State Representatives Keri Ingle, Betsy Fogle, Stephen Webber, David Casteel, Jeff Amato; and State Senator Karla May.
Missouri State Council President DeWitt Darity and Secretary-Treasurer Dwight Terry were recognized for their leadership in organizing the conference. The gathering reinforced solidarity among labor organizations while focusing on legislative strategies that impact working families across Missouri.
