IAM union members, retirees, and staff gathered in San Diego, California for the 2025 Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW) Convention. The event brought together women and supporters from various labor unions to strengthen women’s roles in the labor movement and their local communities.
This year’s convention marked a transition within the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). Julie Frietchen, the current Women and Young Workers Director, handed over her position as IAM’s elected Vice President of CLUW to Demetress Colbert. Colbert is set to take on the IAM Women and Young Workers Director role starting January 1, 2026.
“I want the IAM to build our presence and activism in CLUW,” said Colbert. “I’m excited to take on this role and recruit more sisters to become active in CLUW, to carry what they learn back to their unions, to build the courage to take on leadership positions, and to lift up fellow women.”
At the convention, delegates elected new vice presidents representing each participating union. Colbert ran unopposed for her new role with backing from IAM International President Brian Bryant. Sylvia J. Ramos from Communications Workers of America was chosen as CLUW National President.
Before official proceedings began, attendees took part in workshops focused on topics such as women workers’ rights, international garment workers’ justice campaigns, personal health improvement, women’s labor history, and organizing basics.
“The workshops were not only interesting and educational, but they also cultivated camaraderie,” said Alana Kirkpatrick, Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Local 850 and Oklahoma State Council President. “In addition to tending to the business of the Convention, passing resolutions and constitutional amendments, we were able to discuss challenges in the workplace specific to women and how we can support ourselves and each other.”
Dora Cervantes, General Secretary-Treasurer of IAM Union who has long been involved with CLUW, addressed participants through a video message due to work obligations.
“First, let me say how truly sorry I am that I can’t be there with you in person,“ Cervantes said in her message. “There’s nothing like being in a room full of powerful union women, sharing stories, strength, and strategy.”
Cervantes acknowledged Frietchen’s contributions during her three years as a CLUW Vice President: “Thank you for your friendship, your fire, and your lifelong dedication to lifting women in this movement,” Cervantes told Frietchen. “You make all of us at the IAM so proud.”
Delegates considered resolutions that will guide CLUW’s direction over the next two years.
“It’s very important for women to come together in a space like this where we can connect with each other, share experiences, and support one another in the challenges we face as working women, especially as workers’ and women’s rights are under attack,” Frietchen said. “It’s how we build strength in our workplaces and community in our lives.”
Around 400 delegates from major unions across North America attended this year’s convention.
