IAM union members, retirees, and staff participated in the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention in San Diego, California. The event brought together women and supporters from various labor unions to discuss strategies for increasing women’s influence within unions, communities, and workplaces.
A significant moment at the convention was the transition of leadership within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) delegation. Julie Frietchen, the outgoing Women and Young Workers Director and Vice President of CLUW for IAM, handed over her responsibilities to Demetress Colbert. Colbert is set to assume the IAM Women and Young Workers Director position 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.”
During the convention, delegates elected new vice presidents representing each participating union. Demetress Colbert ran unopposed for IAM’s vice presidency with support from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from the Communications Workers of America was chosen as CLUW National President.
Before official proceedings began, attendees took part in workshops focused on topics such as women workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, physical and mental health improvement for women workers, labor history from a female perspective, and organizing strategies for CLUW members.
Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President, commented on the value of these sessions: “The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie,” said Kirkpatrick. “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 long been involved with CLUW, addressed attendees through a video message due to other union obligations preventing her attendance.
“First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ said Cervantes in her video message. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes acknowledged Julie Frietchen’s contributions over her three-year term as CLUW Vice President for IAM: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” she stated. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
Delegates passed resolutions that will guide CLUW’s mission over 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.”
The convention drew approximately 400 participants including delegates from major unions across North America.
