Tag Archive for: LaShawn English

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UAW Region 1 Makes History: Tentative Agreement Reached at Evolution After Two-Year Organizing Fight

Warren, MI – After nearly two years of organizing, determination, and hard-fought negotiations, UAW Region 1 is proud to announce that a tentative agreement has been reached for approximately 700 Game Presenters (Dealers) at Evolution, one of the largest online gaming platforms in the nation. Evolution services major clients such as BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, and others.

This moment is historic — this is the first-ever online gaming contract in the United States.

From the very beginning, this fight was driven by the strength of the membership and the unwavering leadership of UAW Local 7777 President Terri Sykes, who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with these brave workers every step of the way. Their solidarity, combined with the power of the UAW, made the impossible possible.

Since 2022, UAW organizers and Evolution workers faced significant challenges, including multiple legal delays and two separate election processes, one of which was overturned. Through every obstacle, the workers remained united and determined to secure their seat at the bargaining table.

“This is history in the making,” stated LaShawn English, Director of UAW Region 1. “Under the leadership of Local 7777 President Terri Sykes, we were successful in reaching this contract — the first of its kind in online gaming. These workers refused to back down. This victory sets a national precedent that will echo across this growing industry.”

The tentative agreement includes:

  • Substantial wage improvements
  • Stronger job protections
  • Improved working conditions
  • A voice on the job through collective bargaining

A ratification vote will be scheduled in the coming weeks, allowing members to review and vote on the agreement.

Director English added, “This fight proves that the labor movement is expanding into new industries, and no employer — no matter how new, no matter how large — is beyond the reach of workers who demand dignity, respect, and fairness.”

UAW Region 1 will continue to lead the way in securing strong contracts and protecting workers across all sectors.

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UAW President Shawn Fain Rallies with Detroit Members Behind Rev. Kinloch for Detroit Mayor

In Detroit, UAW members and their families stand ready to knock doors, make calls, and turn out strong for the mayor’s race

Media must RSVP by Friday, June 6 at 5 p.m. ET: UAW.us/KinlochLaunchMedia


DETROIT—UAW members from Detroit will rally with President Shawn Fain and Rev. Solomon Kinloch—the union’s endorsed candidate for mayor and a former UAW Local 235 member. In May, the UAW endorsed Rev. Kinloch, a proud son of a UAW family, for his lifelong advocacy for working people and bold vision for an inclusive Detroit. Regions 1 and 1A, which cover the city, will lead a major turnout push to help elect him.

WHO: UAW President Shawn Fain, Rev. Solomon Kinloch, UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English, UAW Region 1A Director Laura Dickerson and hundreds of UAW members

WHAT: Rally celebrating the UAW’s endorsement of Rev. Kinloch for Detroit mayor

WHERE: UAW Solidarity House, 8000 E. Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48214

WHEN: Saturday, June 7 at 10:00 a.m.

The UAW firmly stands with Rev. Kinloch’s campaign message: as Detroit has made a comeback, far too many working-class families are still left behind.

Rev. Kinloch shares the UAW’s understanding that the revival of the city means nothing if it doesn’t reach everyone. He has stood in solidarity with UAW members time and again—including walking the picket line with UAW Local 900 members and feeding strikers and their families during their recent strike—proving that he doesn’t just talk about economic justice; he lives it.

The UAW is the largest union in Michigan with over 350,000 active and retired members. In the City of Detroit, UAW members and their household family members are over 120,000 strong. The UAW is ready to be a difference-maker in this election, with members of both the union and Rev. Kinloch’s church ready to knock doors, make calls, and turn out in force in Detroit’s mayor’s race.

Media must RSVP by Friday, June 6 at 5 p.m. ET: UAW.us/KinlochLaunchMedia

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UAW Endorses Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. for Mayor of Detroit

Detroit, MI — The United Auto Workers have endorsed Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. for Mayor of Detroit. A longtime advocate for working-class people, Kinloch possesses not only a bold vision for an inclusive Detroit but also deep union roots — as a former member of UAW Local 235 and the son of a proud UAW family.

As Detroit has made a comeback, far too many working-class families have still been left behind. Rev. Kinloch understands that the revival of the city means nothing if it doesn’t reach everyone. He has stood in solidarity with UAW members time and again — including walking the picket line with UAW Local 900 members and feeding strikers and their families during their recent strike — proving that he doesn’t just talk about economic justice; he lives it.

“In this election, Detroit needs a champion who will fight for the working class and build a city that works for everyone — not just the few,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “Rev. Kinloch has the heart, the vision, and the moral leadership to deliver for working people.”

“He’s one of us,” said UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English. “He knows what it means to punch a clock, stand shoulder to shoulder with your brothers and sisters, and demand dignity on the job.”

“UAW members in Region 1A know that solidarity isn’t just a slogan for Solomon Kinloch — it’s how he lives,” said UAW Region 1A Director Laura Dickerson. “When our members were on strike and needed assistance, he didn’t hesitate. He showed up. He lifted us up. Having been a UAW member himself, he understands the power of standing together.”

The UAW is the largest union in Michigan with over 350,000 active and retired members. In the City of Detroit, UAW members and their household family members are over 120,000 strong. The UAW is ready to be a difference-maker in this election. Following a launch event later this spring, UAW members will knock doors, make calls, and turn out in force to elect Rev. Kinloch.

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UAW President Shawn Fain to Rally with DACM Members, Call On Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares to Keep The Promise

DETROIT, MI — UAW President Shawn Fain will rally with members from Detroit Assembly Complex-Mack at UAW Local 51 to call on Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares to honor the union contract and Keep The Promise. The union secured product and investment commitments in Belvidere, Illinois and across the country in its 2023 contract. A year later, the company is trying to go back on their commitments to Stellantis autoworkers – and they’re saying, “No!”

WHO: UAW President Shawn Fain, UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English
WHAT: Rally to Make Stellantis Keep the Promise
WHERE: UAW Local 51, 11000 E. Jefferson, Detroit, MI 48214
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 30, at 3:00 pm

UAW President Shawn Fain, UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English, UAW members and supporters will highlight Stellantis’ refusal to follow through on the $19 billion in product and investment commitments made during the 2023 Stand Up Strike. These promises include reopening the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Illinois and building the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit—both crucial agreements that Stellantis is now trying to backtrack on.

UAW locals representing tens of thousands of Stellantis workers have filed grievances with the company over their failure to Keep the Promise made in contract negotiations. Once the grievance procedure is exhausted under the national contract, the union may authorize a strike.

As Stellantis has filed frivolous lawsuits and robocalled members in a desperate effort to block the union’s actions, three UAW locals have already passed strike authorization votes, with more locals preparing to follow. The union’s grievance process, initiated due to Stellantis’ failure to reopen Belvidere and invest in future production, is moving forward. If grievances remain unresolved, a strike at one or more Stellantis facilities could begin within weeks.

UAW President Shawn Fain recently urged Stellantis members to stand up and fight for their jobs and futures by going to ShitcanCarlos.com to sign a strike authorization pledge.

For more information on the fight to make Stellantis Keep The Promise, visit UAW.org/KeepThePromise.

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A message from LaShawn English, UAW Women’s Department/Region 1 Director

Greetings,


As we enter the month of March, I am inspired to reflect on the significant contributions of women within our UAW community in celebration of Women’s History Month.


Throughout history, women have played pivotal roles in shaping our union and driving positive change. Their resilience, determination, and dedication have been instrumental in advancing workers’ rights and fostering a more inclusive environment for all members.


 However, as we honor the achievements of women within the UAW, it is essential to recognize the challenges that persist. The fight for equal opportunities, fair treatment, and representation remains ongoing. In this spirit, let us recommit ourselves to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our ranks.

 The Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos are children under state law, meaning the embryo has rights consistent with a living person. This negatively impacts reproductive rights and options for families who seek IVF to have children. This serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant in safeguarding the rights of women, both within our union and in society at large. Upholding reproductive freedom, advocating for equal pay, and addressing gender-based violence are crucial aspects of our commitment to justice and equality.


This Women’s History Month, I encourage us all to engage in meaningful conversations, celebrate the achievements of our female colleagues, and actively work towards a more equitable future. Let us amplify the voices of women within the UAW, ensuring that their perspectives and contributions are acknowledged and valued. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let our collective efforts serve as a testament to the UAW’s unwavering commitment to advancing women’s rights. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, we can continue to build a union that reflects the strength and diversity of its members.

Let’s celebrate March 8 by wearing Purple in support of International Women’s Day while also taking action by signing the petitioning members of the House of Representatives to bring HJ Res 25 to the House floor by clicking here.

Thank you for your dedication to the principles of equality and justice. Together, let us create a legacy that honors the contributions of women within the UAW by wearing purple and taking action.

 

 

In solidarity,
LaShawn English
Women’s Department Director,
Region 1 Director

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