Justice for All: IAM Union Representative Calls for Renewed Focus on Solidarity and Inclusion
Larry Bickett, Business Representative of IAM District W24, has published a commentary in the District W24 newsletter and Northwest Labor Press reflecting on changes in attitudes toward inclusivity and solidarity within the labor movement.
Bickett expressed concern over what he perceives as a shift in public acceptance of hate and bigotry. “There was a time when hate and bigotry were clearly recognized for what they are: harmful, divisive, and unacceptable. While those attitudes certainly existed in the past, I want to believe they were not normalized or openly celebrated in the way they seem to be today. Watching that shift has been troubling, and it raises an important question about who we are becoming,” he wrote.
He emphasized that his reflection is not about political affiliations but about shared values. Bickett stated, “I believe the Machinists Union strives to be inclusive. I also believe the IAM recognizes everyone as equal and refuses to single anyone out because of the color of their skin, who they love, how they worship, or where they come from. The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect.”
Addressing union members directly, Bickett questioned whether unionists still uphold traditional principles of unity: “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?”
He reiterated that the labor movement’s mission has always centered on advocating for rights—particularly for those unable to advocate for themselves—and noted that this mission transcends political parties.
Bickett cited the official mission statement of the IAM Union: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.” He outlined core values such as solidarity among workers; justice through fair treatment; dignity and respect without fear; accountability in leadership; excellence in representation; ethical conduct; and commitment to diversity and equity.
“If these are truly our mission and our values, then we must live by them—not only when it is easy, but when it is uncomfortable,” he wrote.
Bickett stressed that no individual should be placed above another within the community or union. He called for disagreement without dehumanization or cruelty: “No one should be placed above another. We should never tear down our fellow brothers, sisters, siblings, or members of our community because they think differently or live differently. Disagreement does not require dehumanization. Strength does not require cruelty.”
He concluded by reaffirming his belief in unity based on mutual respect rather than uniformity: “Unity does not mean uniformity. It means respect. It means fairness. And it means remembering that what binds us together is stronger than what tries to pull us apart.”
“This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in,” Bickett said.
He urged union members to adhere to these principles regardless of political differences: “When we strive to live by these principles—not as Democrats or Republicans, not as Conservatives, Liberals, Independents, or other Parties but as unionists—we are at our best. And when we do, we can still make the world a better place for all of us.”
