Justice for All: IAM Representative Calls for Inclusivity and Solidarity
Larry Bickett, a business representative from IAM District W24, has shared his views on the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and solidarity within the labor movement. In an article published in the District W24 newsletter with Northwest Labor Press, Bickett expressed concern about what he described as a shift toward normalizing hate and division in society.
Bickett stated, “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 emphasized that his reflection was not tied to any political party or label but focused on values. He highlighted that the Machinists Union aims to be inclusive and recognizes everyone as equal. “The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect,” Bickett said.
Bickett questioned how union members can maintain unity amid differing opinions: “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?”
He noted that the labor movement has always advocated for people’s rights regardless of their ability to speak up for themselves. According to Bickett, this mission is outlined by the IAM Union’s guiding statement: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.”
He listed core values supporting this mission:
“Solidarity — the belief that workers must unite collectively to fight for their rights and improve their standard of living.
Justice — a commitment to fair and equitable treatment on the job and in the community.
Dignity and Respect — demanding that all members are treated with dignity, without fear of retaliation or unjust treatment.
Accountability — upholding responsible leadership and governance within the union.
Excellence — striving for the highest standards in training, education, and representation.
Ethics — operating with integrity in all actions and negotiations.
Diversity and Equity — promoting an inclusive workplace and an equitable labor landscape for all.”
Bickett argued these principles should guide behavior even when it is difficult: “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 called for rejecting division based on differences among union members: “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.”
According to Bickett:
“Solidarity means standing together even when we don’t agree on everything.
Justice means speaking up—especially when it is hard.
Dignity and respect mean recognizing the humanity in every person.
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.”
Bickett concluded by stating his belief in both these union principles and their role in American society: “This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in.” He encouraged living by these principles beyond political affiliations: “When we strive to live by these principles—not as Democrats or Republicans…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.”
