Building Solidarity Through Political Action

On April 8, 2026, IAM Canadian Union members convened at the William Winipisinger Center in Hollywood, Maryland, for the Canadian Political Action Symposium, 2026. This two-day training centred around the theme, “Building Solidarity in Polarizing Times” and featured engaging talks from prominent keynote speakers, including IAM’s International President Brian Bryant, Canadian GVP David Chartrand, IAM Canada Chief of Staff Ralph Martin, Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett, and the IAM Women’s and Young Workers Director Dee Colbert.

The symposium was led by respected facilitators from the Canadian Labour Congress, Political Action & Communications Director Brent Farrington, alongside Regional Representative and proud IAM member Amandeep Nijjar. Their leadership and insight helped guide meaningful discussions on how workers can organize, communicate effectively, build campaigns and stand together in the face of division. The event created space for honest discussion, practical learning, and meaningful dialogue on the challenges that lie ahead in the political arena.

Canadian GVP Dave Chartrand addressed Canada’s complex political climate with honesty and strategy, while the International President Brian Bryant, reaffirmed strong support for Canadian interests. He also thanked members for all they do and said he was proud to be part of the IAM family.

The symposium was a strong reminder that education, solidarity, and action remain the foundation of our movement. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event a success.

A special thanks to International Representative Derek Ferguson, for his leadership, and organizing this landmark event.

“There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it is right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King

Some pictures from the Canadian Political Action Symposium 2026