The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is encouraging participation in the 2026 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil & Human Rights Conference, scheduled for January 15-18, 2026, in Baltimore. The event will take place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor.
The conference theme for this year is “Honoring Our History – Fighting for Our Future.” Organizers say the theme reflects the ongoing connection between the labor movement and civil rights efforts. According to the IAM, “It speaks to how the labor movement and civil-rights movement are inextricably linked, and how we must listen to history to chart our future.”
The conference aims to serve as a forum for discussions on issues affecting both labor and civil rights. The IAM states that it “celebrates Dr. King’s enduring legacy while setting a course for collective strength in 2026.”
Attendees can expect expert-led sessions addressing topics such as workers’ collective-bargaining rights, voting rights, threats to democracy, and economic justice. There will also be workshops and breakout sessions focused on providing practical tools for organizing within communities and workplaces.
“This is an opportunity to sharpen skills, build alliances, and leave ready to drive change,” says the IAM.
Recently, Alex Rias was appointed as Director of Civil, Human, and Women’s Rights at AFL-CIO. He will oversee this annual conference.
Early hotel booking is advised due to limited room availability. The negotiated rate at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor is $219 per night. Conference programming begins on Thursday afternoon, January 15; those needing accommodations before then should note that space on January 14 is limited.
