For more than five decades, IAM Air Transport Local 1833 has participated in the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion at the Minnesota State Fair. The pavilion operates throughout the entire 12-day event and provides a space for visitors to learn about union membership, interact with union members from various trades, and observe the presence of organized labor in Minnesota.
The House of Labor Pavilion features live music, displays from different unions, and educational outreach activities. IAM Local 1833 is joined by other unions such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA during the fair.
At its booth, IAM Local 1833 showcases its ties to the airline industry with 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. Additionally, it serves as a meeting point for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers who want to connect with colleagues and discuss 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-term involvement: “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 Minnesota State Fair to connect with union members and celebrate collective action.
