The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) is encouraging participation in the upcoming 2026 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil & Human Rights Conference, scheduled to take place in Baltimore from January 15 to 18, 2026.
This year’s conference theme is “Honoring Our History – Fighting for Our Future.” According to organizers, the theme reflects the connection between the labor and civil rights movements and emphasizes learning from history to guide future efforts. The event aims to foster dialogue and action at the intersection of labor rights and civil/human rights, celebrating Dr. King’s legacy while planning for collective progress.
Attendees will have opportunities to participate in discussions led by experts on current issues affecting workers, including challenges to collective bargaining rights, threats to democracy such as voting rights, and economic justice concerns. The conference will also offer workshops and breakout sessions focused on practical organizing skills for both union members and leaders.
Alex Rias has recently been appointed as Director of Civil, Human, and Women’s Rights at AFL-CIO. He will oversee this annual conference.
The event will be held at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor located at 401 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Organizers recommend booking hotel accommodations early due to high demand; a special room rate of $219 per night has been arranged for participants. Programming begins on Thursday afternoon, January 15, with limited hotel availability on January 14.
Registration is now open for those interested in attending.
