The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) has announced that registration is open for the 2026 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil & Human Rights Conference, scheduled to take place in Baltimore from January 15 to 18, 2026.
This year’s conference theme is “Honoring Our History – Fighting for Our Future.” According to organizers, the theme highlights the connection between the labor movement and the civil rights movement, emphasizing the importance of learning from history to guide future actions.
The event will serve as a forum for discussions on current issues affecting both labor and civil rights. Topics will include workers’ collective-bargaining rights, democracy, voting rights, and economic justice. The conference aims to provide attendees with practical tools through workshops and breakout sessions designed to help them organize within their communities and workplaces.
“Whether you’re a rank-and-file member or a union leader, this is an opportunity to sharpen skills, build alliances, and leave ready to drive change,” said event organizers.
AFL-CIO recently appointed Alex Rias as Director of Civil, Human, and Women’s Rights. He will lead this annual conference focused on Dr. King’s legacy.
The conference will be held at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor at 401 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland. Organizers recommend early hotel and travel bookings due to limited room availability; a negotiated rate of $219 per night is available for participants. Programming will start on Thursday afternoon, January 15. Hotel accommodations are limited on January 14.
