Tag Archive for: LaShawn English

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UAW Concludes 2026 National CAP Conference with Message of Hope and Working Class Solidarity

On the 89th anniversary of the UAW’s historic sit-down strike victory at General Motors in Flint, MI, the union concluded its 2026 National CAP Conference by charting the path forward for this generation’s labor movement.

The fourth and final day of the biennial conference included a White Shirt Day event to honor the sit-downers, the union’s first-ever Michigan Senate Forum, and inspirational speeches from U.S. Senators Rev. Raphael Warnock and Bernie Sanders.

The nearly 1,000 UAW members in attendance on Wednesday, clad in white shirts, began the day by watching a video commemorating the sit-down strike. At Local 651 in Flint, Region 1D held an event to honor the GM sit-downers and to remember the sacrifices made by the workers and the community.

“What those workers did in 1936–1937 took tremendous courage,” Region 1D posted on Facebook, recapping the event. “They risked everything—their jobs, their freedom, and their safety—to stand together inside those plants. They weren’t just fighting for themselves; they were fighting for generations they would never meet. Today, nearly nine decades later, we are the beneficiaries of that sacrifice.”

Both Senator Rev. Warnock and Senator Sanders addressed the massive political division seen all across the country in the current moment but also shared a message of hope and of a better possible future based in working-class solidarity.

“We all feel that there is something broken in the covenant with the American people,” Warnock passionately told attendees. “It’s as if the whole country has a low-grade fever. And we all feel it regardless of our politics. We may not agree on how to fix it, but we all feel it. And the question is how we can find our way to wholeness again… I submit to you, that you ought to keep on organizing, and keep on fighting, and keep on standing up. Do not give in to those who say, ‘put your trust in me.’ Put our trust in each other, and together, we win!”

Sanders asked UAW members to imagine living in an America that lived up to its promise and ideals. “Brothers and sisters, in this momentous, unprecedented moment in American history, let us stand together!” Sanders told the crowd. “Let us show the world what a great country like ours can be and let us fight for the country that you and I know we can become!”

Region 1A Director Mark DePaoli and Region 1 Director LaShawn English, speaking before the Michigan Senate Forum, shared a positive vision for the UAW and the country moving forward, but one that must be fought for.

“These are difficult times, there’s no doubt about that,” Region 1A Director Mark DePaoli told delegates. “And I understand the fear and uncertainty that so many Americans feel in this moment. But I also see this as a great opportunity. An opportunity for us to lead the way forward for the working class. It’s on us to make it happen. So, let’s get to work.”

“In the union, we learn that unless we have each other’s backs, the boss will pick us apart,” Region 1 Director LaShawn English said. “Unless we fight for fair pay and benefits, we will be stuck with poverty wages. Unless we fight to be treated like human beings, we will be treated like we’re no different than a machine there to make the corporation money. So, we fight.”

Michigan Senator Mallory McMorrow, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, and Dr. Abdul El-Sayed shared the stage for the forum, sharing their personal stories, and contrasting their views on a number of topics. UAW members in the crowd also asked the three candidates questions on the issues currently facing union workers and the working class.

The forum can be watched in full below or here.

UAW members, joined by the International Executive Board and Senator Sanders, ended proceedings by singing the iconic labor tune, “Solidarity Forever.”

UAW 2026 Guide of Our Issues — Our Time to Lead: Building Working Class Power

Recap of Day One of the National CAP Conference
Recap of Day Two of the National CAP Conference
Recap of Day Three of the National CAP Conference

For more information on this year’s event, visit UAW.org/CAP2026.

*Thank you to all UAW members who contributed photos during the conference. Individual credits in the photo caption.

 

 

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UAW Announces Major Michigan Candidate Endorsements for 2026

In a decision led by a member-elected board of the UAW’s Community Action Program (CAP) in Michigan, the UAW is announcing two major endorsements for statewide races ahead of a critical year for defending workers’ rights.

For the office of Michigan Attorney General, the union is endorsing Karen McDonald to lead bold action in the fight against federal attacks on the rights of all working-class Michiganders. And for Secretary of State, the UAW stands with Garlin Gilchrist to preserve our democracy and right to vote as Michigan continues to be ground zero in attacks on the ballot box.

“The UAW’s support is never automatic. In times like these, we look past party lines and focus on one thing: electing leaders who will stand up to the billionaires and fight for union families,” said UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English. “UAW members who lead the Michigan CAP Board came together to ask hard questions and evaluate candidates with the goal of determining who is ready and willing to fight for working people. Our union’s endorsement is earned, not given. This moment is about electing leaders who will stand shoulder to shoulder with working people. Karen McDonald for Attorney General and Garlin Gilchrist for Secretary of State are the leaders that we trust to win and to have our backs.”

“Workers’ rights are in more danger than ever, and we need an Attorney General like Karen McDonald as our first line of defense for working-class Michiganders,” said Dennis Geno, UAW Local 362 member and Chair of the Great Lakes Bay Area Regional CAP Council.  “I drove over three hours in a snowstorm to hear from candidates who would support our union. Karen grew up in a working-class family, was a union member herself. She has a track record as a fighter and will fight for workers as Attorney General. We know a real one when we see her, and Karen McDonald is a real one we can trust on our side.”

“Michigan is ground zero for attacks on our right to vote and Garlin Gilchrist is the person we need to protect our democracy,” said Dwayne Walker, UAW Local 900 President and Michigan CAP Council Executive Committee member. “Garlin is a strong ally to the UAW and has shown up time and again to not just stand tall but to stand in solidarity with Michigan’s working class when we’ve needed him the most. The choice is clear for the UAW’s Michigan CAP General Board as to who should lead our state in this critical moment, when our vote needs leadership most.”

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UAW Workers at Challenge Manufacturing Win Major Wage Gains, Tentative Deal Reached After Workers Stood Up to Company Rhetoric

Pontiac, MI — After weeks of stalled talks and mounting frustration, UAW members at Challenge Manufacturing have reached a tentative agreement that delivers significant wage increases, stronger job security, and greater union protections—overcoming the company’s stubborn refusal to deliver a contract that met members’ demands.

The deal comes after the company’s refusal to negotiate in good faith pushed workers to the brink of a strike. But UAW Local 653 members stood firm, mobilizing their coworkers and the community to force the company back to the table.

“Four weeks ago, the company called their offer ‘last, best, and final.’ It wasn’t good enough—and we fought back,” said James Gonzales, President of UAW Local 653. “We stayed united, rejected their proposal, and organized non-stop to hold them accountable. That pressure stopped them in their tracks. Now, we have a tentative agreement with 80% higher wage increases than what was on the table a month ago. Because we stood together in solidarity, we have a much stronger contract to bring to our members.”

The tentative agreement includes:

  • Wage increases of up to $3/hour, which for most employees represent a wage increase of at least 15%.
  • Stronger job security, including limits on the use of temporary workers and clearer paths to permanent employment.
  • Enhanced union security provisions, ensuring new hires are properly brought into the union and workers have stronger representation on the shop floor.

Challenge Manufacturing supplies critical parts for major GM and Stellantis models, including the Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, GMC Hummer EV, and Corvette. The facility’s 400 workers had been without a contract since June 10, with some making as little as $18 an hour—less than many fast-food jobs in Oakland County.

“I’m proud of my UAW family at Local 653 who refused to settle for a bad deal,” said UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English. “They stood strong, communicated directly with members every step of the way, and nearly doubled the company’s so-called final offer from just four weeks ago. On top of that, they secured important gains on job security and union rights. That’s the power of solidarity and smart organizing.”

Full details of the agreement will be shared with membership ahead of a ratification vote next week. The bargaining committee is unanimously recommending ratification.

“This contract sends a clear message,” Gonzales said. “We’re done being disrespected. We’re done being underpaid. And we’re done settling for less than we deserve.”

Working together, the Challenge Manufacturing Shop Chairman and Shop Committee stood firm with the local, regional and International leadership to reach a tentative agreement. Their dedication, unity, and persistence at the bargaining table were instrumental in securing a deal that reflects the priorities and strength of the membership.

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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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