For more than five decades, IAM Air Transport Local 1833 has participated in the Minnesota AFL-CIO House of Labor Pavilion at the Minnesota State Fair. The pavilion is a gathering place where visitors can learn about union membership, meet members from different trades, and engage with the state’s labor movement.
The House of Labor Pavilion operates throughout the 12-day fair and offers live music, displays from unions, and educational activities. IAM Local 1833 is one of many unions present at the event, alongside groups such as AFSCME, USW, UFCW, MNA, SEIU, IBEW, and CWA.
At their booth, IAM Local 1833 showcases its ties to the airline industry with model airplanes and features like a donut press contributed by an IAM Business Representative. The booth also honors Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines and serves as a meeting point for Delta Air Lines ramp and flight attendant organizers to discuss union representation.
“Our members in Minnesota show the true spirit of the labor movement at the state fair,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “By connecting directly with the public, educating them about the value of union membership, and standing in solidarity with other unions, they are helping strengthen the voice of working people everywhere.”
IAM Local 1833 President Mary Sansom described her long-term involvement: “I have been doing the state fair for at least 20 years, and the best part is seeing my brothers and sisters at the AFL-CIO Pavilion, making new friends, and supporting one another,” said Sansom. “It’s a great time building solidarity with family, friends, and union family.”
The IAM Union encourages all workers to visit their booth at next year’s fair to connect with others in support of organized labor.
