CANADIAN POLITICAL ACTION SYMPOSIUM FOCUSES ON BUILDING SOLIDARITY IN POLARIZING TIMES
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.
A dynamic, informative and entertaining presentation by IAM Communications Representative Vanessa Breidy on Misinformation, kept the members engaged and informed about the ills of this destructive issue pervading society today.
The event created space for honest discussion, practical learning, and meaningful dialogue on the challenges that lie ahead in the political arena.
A key lesson from the training was that political action begins with building consensus. That starts with conversations with members — listening to their concerns, discussing the issues that matter most, and showing how positive change can improve their daily lives. Participants learned that by changing laws at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels, unions can help create lasting improvements that benefit not only workers, but all Canadians.
The complex political situation in Canada was addressed thoughtfully by Canadian General Vice President Dave Chartrand. No one tiptoed around the hard conversations — they were met head on with diplomacy, tact, strategy, and discretion. His message reinforced the need for workers to stay engaged, informed, and united.
The International President Brian Bryant, also delivered a strong message affirming that the IAM union proudly represents Canadian interests. He thanked everyone for the work they do each day and said he was proud to be part of the IAM family. His remarks were met with appreciation and solidarity from those in attendance.
Canadian Chief of Staff Ralph Martin also spoke about the support Canadians have received through Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines and the positive impact of that important work. Dee Colbert of the IAM shared information regarding registration for the upcoming Women’s and Young Workers Conference in Chicago in September, encouraging members to take part in this valuable opportunity for growth and activism.
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
