Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers), and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement following President Trump’s announcement on pausing most tariffs for 90 days:  

“As the largest aerospace and defense labor union in the United States and Canada, the IAM Union believes that we should take the next 90 days to help chart a path forward that will benefit workers. We must put an end to the constant anxiety of job losses due to tariff threats between allies. We continue to offer a space for all stakeholders – government, business and labor – to come together to forge a real, comprehensive strategy to protect and grow critical manufacturing here in the United States and Canada while punishing the bad actors across the globe. Workers deserve the right to drive policy conversations about their livelihoods. Working people should be at the table, not on the menu.”   

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

On this year’s International Women’s Day, the IAM Union, alongside other unions, attended an inspiring Women’s Day Brunch that celebrated the power of women in the labour movement. The event brought together incredible women who shared their stories, insights, and experiences.

Among the powerful voices was Bea Bruske from the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), Debra De Angelis from UFCW, Dr. Crystal Garvey from OPSEU, and Joy Brown, a retired member of the Peel Regional Police Service.

The event featured performances by students from Meadowvale Secondary School, as well as a lively set by the Tri-Service Band. With raffles and a live auction, attendees had the chance to come together in support of women’s initiatives. It was a celebration of progress, unity, and the strength of women in the labor movement, highlighting their ongoing impact in creating a more inclusive future.