As members of the IATSE, we pay homage to the lasting impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., recognizing his vital role in the Civil Rights Movement, and his support for unionized labor. Dr. King understood that the labor movement’s importance was not only fair wages and better working conditions, but that it was the one true path towards social and economic freedom for all workers. King’s vision remains a guiding light, urging us all to continuously stand up for dignity and solidarity in our pursuit of a just and equitable workplace.
“The labor movement was the principal force that transformed misery and despair into hope and progress. Out of its bold struggles, economic and social reform gave birth to unemployment insurance, old age pensions, government relief for the destitute, and above all new wage levels that meant not mere survival, but a tolerable life. The captains of industry did not lead this transformation; they resisted it until they were overcome. When in the thirties the wave of union organization crested over our nation, it carried to secure shores not only itself but the whole society.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., AFL-CIO Convention, October 1965.
In commemorating Martin Luther King Day, the IATSE Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee encourages members to embrace his enduring influence, emphasizing that collective action and a united voice are potent tools for addressing social issues and pursuing economic betterment. We are many crafts… many Locals… one voice! Together, let us embrace these principles in our ongoing journey toward a just and equitable future for all workers!
This year, we are pleased that IATSE will be participating in the 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Right Conference. Hundreds of union members, activists, community leaders and more are in Montgomery, AL, for a weekend of strategizing on the continued fight for economic & racial justice as a labor movement.
Watch the livestream here: 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference (themlkconference.org)