Justice for All: IAM Representative Reflects on Union Values of Inclusion and Solidarity
Larry Bickett, a business representative for IAM District W24, has called attention to the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and solidarity within the labor movement. In an article published in the District W24 newsletter alongside Northwest Labor Press, Bickett expressed concern about what he sees as a shift toward greater acceptance of hate and bigotry in society.
“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,” Bickett wrote.
He emphasized that his message is not about political affiliations but rather about core values shared by union members. “I believe the Machinists Union strives to be inclusive. I also believe the IAM recognizes everyone as equal and refuses to single anyone out because of the color of their skin, who they love, how they worship, or where they come from. The IAM was not built on hate or exclusion. It was built on standing together—in solidarity, dignity, and mutual respect.”
Bickett posed questions to fellow unionists regarding their commitment to unity: “What happened to us as unionists? How do we stand as unionists? Do we still stand together as brothers, sisters, and siblings?”
He reiterated that supporting workers’ rights is central to the labor movement’s mission and does not belong exclusively to any political party. He cited the IAM Union’s mission statement: “To inspire and empower IAM union members to make life better and create a world with security, dignity, and opportunity for all.”
The mission is underpinned by several core values:
– Solidarity—the belief that workers must unite collectively.
– Justice—a commitment to fair treatment at work and in communities.
– Dignity and Respect—demanding all members are treated fairly.
– Accountability—ensuring responsible leadership within unions.
– Excellence—aiming for high standards in training and representation.
– Ethics—acting with integrity during negotiations.
– Diversity and Equity—promoting inclusion across workplaces.
“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,” Bickett stated.
He warned against placing individuals above others or fostering division due to differences in thought or lifestyle. “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.”
Bickett concluded by affirming his belief in unity through respect rather than uniformity: “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.”
“This is the union I believe in. It is also the America I believe in,” he wrote.
“When we strive to live by these principles—not as Democrats or Republicans, not as Conservatives, Liberals, Independents or other Parties 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.”
