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Dear IAM Family,
In observance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month this May, the IAM proudly celebrates the invaluable contributions and the rich history of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community within the United States and more specifically within the labor movement.
Throughout history, the AAPI community has faced significant challenges, including legalized exclusion and discrimination. Despite these adversities, their resilience and contributions have been pivotal in shaping the social, economic, and political landscape of the country. The AAPI community’s role in labor history, in particular, has been both significant and transformative, demonstrating a strong commitment to justice and equality.
However, the struggle for recognition and equality continues. The myth of the model minority still overshadows the very real issues of racial and pay disparities affecting the community. As of 2023, data shows that Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) women earn only 80 cents for every dollar earned by their white, non-Hispanic male counterparts. This statistic is a stark reminder of the ongoing issues of inequality and discrimination that must be addressed.
The IAM stands in solidarity with the AAPI community and is committed to fighting against anti-Asian hate crimes, bias, xenophobia, and harassment in all its forms. We believe in the power of education, awareness, and action to bring about change. This month and every day, we pledge to honor the AAPI community’s contributions by learning more about the leaders, trailblazers, and IAM members who have left and continue to leave an indelible mark on the labor movement and beyond.
We invite our IAM sisters, brothers, and siblings to join us in this celebration and commitment to equality, inclusion, and respect for all communities.
It’s a new era for the IAM. Together, we can make a difference.
We are one. We are the IAM.
Sincerely,
Brian Bryant
IAM International President
