UAW Statement on the Passing of USW President Leo W. Gerard

We mourn the passing of Leo W. Gerard, former International President of the United Steelworkers, whose life was dedicated to advancing the cause of working people around the world.

Gerard was a tireless advocate for global solidarity. He understood that the fight for workers’ rights could not stop at national borders, and he worked to ensure that unions spoke with a united voice in the face of corporate power.

His leadership was pivotal in many international struggles, including efforts in Mexico to support the independent union movement and the campaign to hold Volkswagen accountable for union-busting in Chattanooga. When the decision arose at the IndustriALL Executive Committee meeting over whether to maintain the Global Framework Agreement with Volkswagen, Gerard’s intervention was decisive in backing the UAW. He made it crystal clear that union-busting would not be tolerated and that at the global level, labor would stand as one.

Leo Gerard leaves behind a legacy of courage, conviction, and solidarity. His vision of a labor movement united across borders will continue to guide the fight for justice for generations to come.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, to his colleagues, and to the entire United Steelworkers community.