Blog

Detroit - UAW Ford members worked diligently and remained dedicated to produce the finest built products in the world during a year that presented great challenges due to the pandemic and unprecedented supply chain issues. Their contributions to Ford Motor Company’s profits under such conditions are to be commended and our members should be very proud of this great accomplishment.
Detroit – “Through their negotiated contract, UAW members today received news that they will receive up to $10,250 in profit sharing. This benefit was achieved through collective bargaining and our UAW members have earned a share of the prosperity that their skill, hard work and dedication created. Our members should be proud during a challenging year at this achievement. We continue to talk to our local unions and General Motors about some of the unforeseen challenges UAW members faced this year.”
My sisters and brothers, This great union of ours and all of our UAW family, past and present, have a long and cherished legacy in fighting for the civil rights and equality of all Americans and all peoples of the world. It is one of the founding principles of our union and we have much to be proud about.
Brothers and Sisters, On Monday, we celebrate the great sacrifices and life-changing contributions of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His vision was one of inclusion, of nonviolence, of respecting the rights of each and every one of us and championing the fact that we are all Americans.
In this issue: Welcome Home PFC Ellis Solidarity Around the Globe ZF Joins the UAW And more!
My Sisters and Brothers, I want to begin this first message of 2022 with a deep sentiment of gratitude for our union and for all the hard work, dedication, and fortitude our UAW family showed this past year. We had many challenges to face together, and I watched this membership rise to each one of them and support one another, as we always do.

On November 11, people across the country will take a moment to honor our military veterans, who have sacrificed their time -- and many their lives -- by serving in the United States Armed Forces. In addition to their brave actions, defending our country and others, these men and women are a valuable resource to the entire labor movement. The UAW has a long history of supporting and recognizing the men and women in our military and their families.

Sisters and Brothers,

This Veterans Day across our great nation, we honor the proud individuals who served our country. We remember the men and women, and their families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice during wartime, those who made it through, and those who gave of their time and commitment during peacetime. We will again remember the willingness and sacrifice of America’s veterans who served our country — service that deserves our lasting gratitude.

Pursuant to the Consent Decree entered by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in the matter of United States v. International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America, 20 Cv. 13293 (DML-RSW) (E.D.

Hear from Carlos Albino from Catalão, Goiàs Brazil show solidarity for UAW-John Deere workers on strike.

"It’s Time to Focus on Jobs and Our Future, Not Discord ….. Act Now ! “

Detroit - The United Auto Workers today announced a broad campaign to have Congress move forward on passing the Build Back Better and bi-partisan Infrastructure bills and Kildee/Stabenow Provision to protect good paying American jobs.

History Made As First African American Women Elected UAW Regional Director

DETROIT – Standing before elected delegates from Region 1A local unions, Laura Dickerson made history Friday when she was elected UAW Region 1A Regional Director, the first African American woman to serve as head of a UAW Region.

Local Agreement
GM Romulus - Global Propulsion Systems

Eileen Turczyn

Sister of DDC Retiree - Thomas Turczyn
Passed Away - August 5, 2021

“For 36 years, UAW members didn’t have just a Senator, they had a friend in Carl Levin. He was a strong, caring, deeply committed individual who never forgot the working families of Michigan and this country.

Carl Levin stood for honor and dignity and fairness for all Americans. As Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, he steered our nation through the turbulent period after the terror attacks of 9-11 with quiet dignity and a resolve to modernize our military.

Teddy Laduke
DDC Employee

Date of Death: July 8, 2021

Visitations:
Friday, July 16, 2021
2 pm - 8 pm
Michigan Memorial Funeral Home
30895 West Huron Drive
Flat Rock, MI  48134

Services:
Saturday, July 17, 2021
10 am
Michigan Memorial Funeral Home
30895 West Huron Drive
Flat Rock, MI  48134

Interment in Michigan Memorial Park

Dwayne Price
DDC Employee

Date of Death: Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Visitation:

James H. Cole Funeral Home
2624 W. Grand Blvd
Detroit, MI 48208
(313) 873-0771
Friday, July 9, 2021
9 AM - 9:30 PM

Funeral Service:

Liberty Temple Apostolic Faith Church
8425 Fenkell
Detroit, MI 48238
(313) 342-2424
Saturday, July 10, 2021
10:30 am - 11:30 am

The Funeral Service will begin immediately following the Family Hour Service at 11:30 am

Local Union Update - Mettings and Events

With the total number of COVID cases continuing to drop, we are allowing the local unions to reconvene their local union meetings and their local union events.

Focus on Building, Growing and Strengthening Membership

Detroit - With a focus on building, growing, and strengthening membership, the UAW International Executive Board (IEB), on Monday June 28, unanimously elected Secretary-Treasurer Ray Curry to serve as UAW President upon the retirement of Rory L. Gamble for the remainder of the current term, which ends in June 2022 at the 38th Constitutional Convention.

With the vacancy created by the retirement of UAW Vice President and Director of the Ford Department Gerald Kariem, the UAW International Executive Board has unanimously elected UAW Region 1A Director Chuck Browning, 57, to fill the remainder of Kariem’s term, which ends in June 2022. Browning will officially assume his new role on July 1, 2021.

Detroit -- With the vacancy created by the election of Secretary-Treasurer Ray Curry to the office of president upon the retirement of Rory L. Gamble, the UAW International Executive Board has unanimously elected UAW Region 1 Director Frank Stuglin, 61, to serve as Secretary-Treasurer. His term officially begins on July 1, 2021 and ends in June 2022 at the 38th Constitutional Convention.

Detroit - UAW President Rory L. Gamble informed staff at noon today that he has notified the UAW International Executive Board (IEB) that he will retire at the end of June. He will serve through June 30, 2021.

Under the UAW Constitution, the IEB will elect a successor to serve the remainder of the term through June 2022.

The observance of Juneteenth is recognition of a profound milestone in our nation’s history. And while our struggles for equality in the United States have been long and difficult and sometimes fraught with setbacks and terrible loss, today we reflect on how far we, as Americans, have come in this journey.

A culture of belonging and caring for each other starts with each one of us. In honor of Juneteenth, on Friday, June 18, we are inviting you to acknowledge and celebrate an important moment in U.S. history.

Juneteenth is an annual celebration on June 19 marking the end of slavery in the United States. Though the Emancipation Proclamation took effect in 1863, freedom would not come for many enslaved African Americans until years later. On June 19th, 1865, Union soldiers brought news of the Civil War’s end to Galveston bringing with them freedom for the 250,000 people enslaved in Texas. Juneteenth was made an official U.S. federal holiday yesterday.

By Rory L. Gamble CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS BELONG TO US ALL Look around your world these days. People are celebrating the diversity of who they are; what makes us all unique, wonderful people. For UAW members in the workplace and at home we live in a time when prejudices are no longer being tolerated, whether it is racial, ethnic, or sexual identity. We find ourselves living in a time where equality in the workplace and in our communities is valued more than it ever has.

John DeGhetto

DDC Retiree

Passed Away - June 7, 2021

Thomas Ruszkiewicz
Powertrain Retiree

Passed Away: November 3, 2020

Memorial Gathering
June 19th, 2021
10 am - 12 pm
Schrader Howell Funeral Home
280 S. Main Street
Plymouth, MI  48170

Memorial Service
June 19th, 2021
Noon
Schrader Howell Funeral Home
280 S. Main Street
Plymouth, MI  48170

Memorial Service is being held late due to COVID

My Brothers and Sisters,

We have all been through a year that none of us could have possibly imagined, and I want to begin this message with a note of thanks to my UAW family for their strength and Solidarity in facing a worldwide pandemic that has forever altered all of our lives. I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished and I am confident that we will continue to do the hard work to keep one another safe.

Now an International event, Earth Day has been celebrated since April 22, 1970 and its origins are here in the United States. In fact, this annual celebration wouldn’t exist without legendary UAW leader Walter Reuther.

Detroit — I watched in horror last week and this weekend, along with the rest of our nation, as the headlines rolled in once again with reports of bloodshed, terror, tragedy and senseless loss of lives. America woke up Friday morning to the news of a mass shooting in Indianapolis, Indiana that took the lives of eight innocent people and injured several others. By the end of this weekend, at least nine more people had been killed in shootings across the country — in Illinois, Texas, Wisconsin, Ohio, Nebraska and Louisiana.

More lives lost to gun violence.

This years UAW International Bowling Tournament has been canceled due to Coronavirus concerns.

UAW Region 1A
Wyandotte Primary Endorsements
May 4, 2021
Wayne County
UAW Region 1A Director, Chuck Browning

In this issue’s cover story, some UAW members outline what they say they would like to see President Biden tackle early in his term.

Other stories include:

Detroit - On behalf of the UAW and all my sisters and brothers, I want to extend our sympathies and prayers on this tragic day to the families of the 10 victims in Boulder, Colorado, shot dead in yet another senseless and unimaginable act of gun violence. This horrific incident comes just days after the shootings in Atlanta, Georgia claimed eight innocent victims.

Detroit -- On behalf of the entire UAW and all my brothers and sisters, I want to extend our heartfelt sympathies and prayers to the families of the victims of Tuesday’s horrific shootings in Atlanta and our prayers for the recovery of the young man who is currently fighting for his life in an Atlanta hospital.

Former UAW Vice President Richard Shoemaker passed away Friday March 12 at the age of 81. Shoemaker served as UAW Vice President for three terms including an assignment overseeing the UAW General Motors Department.

Shoemaker, born on October 6, 1939, joined the UAW in 1957 right out of high school when he began working at Deere & Co. Harvester Works in East Moline, Illinois where his father worked.

Taking strong and decisive measures to end the pandemic and create a pathway for a speedy, equitable and sustained economic recovery, President Biden and Congress have made major strides toward protecting the health and safety of the American people.

The new law provides direct payments to struggling American taxpayers and extends weekly unemployment benefits for families in need through Labor Day and makes a substantial portion of aid from last year tax-free.

Detroit Diesel

Contract Extension Results

Results for the 1 Year Contract Extension Vote Held on Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Yes - 66 %

No - 34 %

Ryan Martin, Chairperson
Election Committee
UAW Local 163

Approved:

Ralph Morris Jr.
President
UAW Local 163

A school system outside Washington is poised to become the nation’s biggest operator of electric school buses.

Bruce O'Connor

Passed Away - February 9, 2021

DETROIT - UAW President Rory L. Gamble has announced 14 UAW members who were selected by blind draw from each UAW region to serve on the UAW’s newly constituted Member Advisory Committee on Ethics.

Detroit - Today’s investment by General Motors in the Romulus GPS and GM Bedford Casting Operations recognizes the world class production of engines and engine components by UAW members. By investing over $100 million dollars, GM has made a commitment to the work and jobs that benefit UAW members, their families and communities in Romulus and Bedford.
By Ray Curry, Secretary-Treasurer, UAW A month into a tumultuous start of a new year, a new year following the most chaotic year in America that any living person can remember, I am seeing signs that the work in the streets and in our hospitals and at our voting booths far and wide, are saying even in states no one thought we would have captured after 2016, that even though we have been hit hard on so many fronts, it’s our front line that is now advancing for the greater good. It is divisiveness and hate that must retreat; it is science that will now confront COVID-19. And it is Americans of color who overcame at the polls to deliver the House, the Senate and the Presidency....

 Erich Gotzfried

Father of DDC Employee - Jeffrey Gotzfried - Dept. 793

Date of Death:  Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Visitation:
Howe Peterson Funeral Home
9800 Telegraph Road
Taylor, MI  48180
(313) 291-0900
10:30 AM - 1 PM

The Funeral Service will begin after the visitation at 1 PM

PRESENTED BY & 18TH ANNUAL WWJ WINTER SURVIVAL RADIOTHON Friday, February 12, 2021 | 5 a.m. – 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.thawfundevents.org Radiothon donations 888.579.4950

“We want to wish Scott Sandefur the best of luck in his new role and his retirement in 2021.  Scott is a man of integrity and credibility.  We saw issues between G.M. and the UAW differently many times while working together.  During those time of disagreements, he did not compromise his values or credibility while performing his duties.

On behalf of the UAW, we wish Scott all the best in the future.”

Oakwood Unit Meeting via Zoom

February 10, 2021

7 AM - Midnights
11 AM - Afternoons
2:30 PM - Days

DETROIT - With the stroke of a pen, President Joe Biden today sent a strong message to American workers that our government will do all it can to support buying American products, made here by American workers, recommitting to the men and women of working America. Through today’s order, the Biden Administration commits the vast power of the U.S. government to U.S. citizen made products.

Providing heating assistance to Michigan families Detroit - UAW President Rory L. Gamble has been unanimously elected to serve on the Board of Directors of THAW, The Heat and Warmth Fund, an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, that has been helping to keep Michigan families warm through utility assistance since 1985. THAW provides assistance to vulnerable Michigan residents through 39 agency partners and a series of annual mobile processing events. Since its inception in 1985, THAW has distributed over $190 million in assistance to more than 256,000 Michigan households. Last year, THAW distributed more than $15 million in utility assistance to nearly 18,000 Michigan households, helping families stay warm in the winter and protecting them against water shutoffs.

Barbara Caylor Black

Mother of DDC Employees - Timothy Caylor Dept. 851 & Jody Caylor

Date of Death:  Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Visitation:

Monday, January 25, 2021
R. C. Aleks & Son Funeral Home
1324 Southfield Road
Lincoln Park, MI  48146
(313) 382-7878
2 PM - 7 PM

Funeral Services:

Photo by Detroit News Archives Originally posted on DetroitNews.com By Rory L. Gamble With images of an insurrection at our nation’s Capitol this month, we all are experiencing a nation divided like none of us has ever seen. We are divided by politics. By opinions. By economics. By beliefs. The cause? Well, that is up for debate. What isn’t up for debate is that this is a time to look to — and take heart in — the words of President John F. Kennedy and heed the warning of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. that healing our nation starts with us. Each of us must personally seek to find what unites us and foster that, bond with it, build upon it, so that we can move forward to a better place for us all.

Detroit - “Hand on Bible, in the seat of the world’s longest democratic republic, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris took an oath that carries the hopes and dreams of all Americans to rise from the COVID-19 challenge, our economic challenges and our national division.

James Kennard

Father of DDC Employee - James Kennard - Dept. 978

Date of Death:  Saturday, January 16, 2021

Visitation:

Sunday, January 24, 2021
O. H. Pye Funeral Home
17600 Plymouth Road
Detroit, MI  48227
(313) 838-9770
12 PM - 5 PM

Family Hour Service

Monday, January 25, 2021
Detroit World Outreach
23800 W. Chicago
Redford, MI  48239
12 PM - 12:30 PM

The Funeral Service will begin promptly at 12:30 PM

Sisters and Brothers,

This week we will see a new Administration sworn into office in Washington, D.C.

With the Biden/Harris presidency, we will see the nation’s first female, and biracial Vice President along with a cabinet that promises to be the most diverse ever. And they will be joining a Congress that is the most diverse in our nation’s history.

Mark Wallace

DDC Employee - Dept.125

Husband of DDC Employee Melissa Wallace - Dept. 566

Date Of Death:  Thursday, January 14, 2021

Visitation:

Sunday, January 17, 2021
Neely-Tarowski Funeral Home
30200 Five Mile Road
Livonia, MI  48154
(734) 525-9020

Tune in Saturday, January 16th at 7pm for America United: An Inauguration Welcome Event Celebrating America's Changemakers. The event will kick off the inaugural festivities with musical performances and messages from leaders across the country, including UAW President Rory L. Gamble.

DETROIT - “Wayne County made a strong decision today to elevate Chief Deputy Ray Washington to fill Benny Napoleon's unexpired term as Wayne County Sheriff. Benny understood that policing required diligence, professionalism and compassion as we navigate some very serious economic and societal pressures. Ray will bring continuity, integrity and an understanding of community public service to this crucial role. The UAW congratulates Ray Washington on his appointment as Wayne County Sheriff.”

DETROIT - “Today’s selection of Boston Mayor Marty Walsh puts a labor member, long-time administrator and friend of working families in a very important but often underappreciated agency. There is much work to be done to re-establish the rightful role of the Labor Department from a period of ideological attack on working families and labor workplace protections. For the last four years, the labor protection mechanisms at the Labor Department and the appointees of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) have been dominated by anti-worker ideologues.

“UAW members worked hard in Georgia during the runoff election. Today’s election results in Georgia signal that obstructionism in Washington, D.C will end. These results also clearly signal that the American people expect Congress to work with President Elect Joe Biden on behalf of working families in this country regardless of ideology through the narrow majority in both chambers. It’s time to find common ground with the Biden Administration for the sake of UAW members at their worksites, on the factory floor, and in their communities.”

Detroit - “During the 2019 collective bargaining negotiations, members ratified a contract that contains a defined path to full-time status. This hard-fought UAW contract priority has resulted in over 400 UAW Ford members eligible to move to full-time status in January with more to come. For many UAW families this bargained pathway will be life-changing thanks to their solidarity at the bargaining table.”

Registration is now live for the 2021 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference! This year, the conference will be held Jan. 15–16 and will be free for all participants, but you must register to attend.

Detroit - “UAW members negotiated and ratified a path to seniority status in the 2019 National Negotiations and because of their contract, 650 members will gain seniority status and benefits this month. This life-changing event is a testament to our members' hard work as permanent temporary employees and the power of collective bargaining that created this defined path for them to seniority status.”

My Sisters and Brothers,

I know I have said this many times in the past 12 months, but I can’t think of anything that sums up more about what 2020 has shown us and it is this: I am so proud of each and every one of you and of this union for the strength, the courage, the sacrifice and the sheer will to stand together against the unimaginable hardships that 2020 threw at us all. As far as I’m concerned, it is SOLIDARITY at its finest. And it is the heart and soul of this union.

Ray Curry, Secretary-Treasurer, UAW What is the distance a good deed can travel? What does a warm bowl of soup mean? What does a warm bed mean? A new bike or a kind gesture from a stranger?

William "Pretty Willie" Carter

DDC Retiree
Father of DDC Employee - Dione Carter-Williams

Passed Away - December 18, 2020

Whether you're just looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or want to fundraise for your local union this holiday season, the Union Sportmen Alliance's 2021 Calendar is a great choice:

UAW Local 163 - Civil Rights Committee will be holding a meeting on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 3:30 pm  via Zoom.  The meeting will cover Regular Order of Business and a special tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.

Zoom Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8084061820
Meeting ID: 808 406 1820

Why not gift your loved one a cool new set of headphones? With the AT&T Signature Program, union members can get discounts on a wide range of eligible accessories – including headphones, smart devices, and more.

Learn more: https://unionplus.deals/60e

Buying union and buying American shows our willingness to buy only the very best for our loved ones and support fairness and dignity on the job. We also support efforts to keep America strong by raising the standard of living, adding to the economy and saving jobs that may be lost to other countries. The job you save could be your own!

Buying American-made is good.
Buying Union is BEST!

“Over the past year, as Ford and the U.S. auto industry faced unprecedented challenges over the CoronaVirus pandemic, Gary Johnson worked tirelessly with the UAW and our members to address the serious health and safety issues in our workplace with collaboration, honesty and real concern. Although we had differences at the bargaining table, Gary always understood that ultimately UAW members were his family too and it was reflected in the way he approached bargaining. We wish him well in his retirement.

Finding products made by union workers in the U.S. can be tough, especially when it comes to buying a vehicle. If you’re getting a new vehicle for someone on your holiday gift list it’s easy to figure out if that car was made in the U.S. by union workers but you need to know where to look and how to decipher the info.  Start by picking a vehicle from the UAW’s 2021 Union-Built Buying Guide. Then, check the vehicle’s VIN – Vehicle Identification Number using the guide below.

“Today’s investment announcement of $76 million builds on the public's demand for the quality engines and trucks produced for General Motors by the women and men in Tonawanda and increases investment in Parma production as well. As a team, UAW built trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra continue to be best in class. Today’s investment rewards that quality and success with a commitment to increased production.”

GM Romulus
Local Contract Ratification Results
Thursday, December 10, 2020

58% - Yes
42% - No

UAW Local 163
Election Committee Chairperson
Ryan Martin

Don Miller

DDC Retiree
Past Workers Compensation Rep


Passed Away: Sunday, December 6, 2020

Father of DDC Employee - Jay Miller Dept. 591

Memorial Service

Wednesday, December 9, 2020
10 AM
Our Lady of the Woods
21892 Gudith Road
Woodhaven, MI  48183
(734) 671-5101

Union support to allow DPTV to expand its education and social justice programming and engagement during this crucial time in the life of Metro Detroit The UAW has announced that it will partner with Detroit Public TV (DPTV) to advance DPTV’s programming on issues of vital importance to Southeast Michigan, with a special emphasis on education and racial justice.
Countless people are facing staggering statistics of homelessness throughout the country in 2020. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, 8,351 people are homeless on any given night in the state of Michigan alone. That is why the UAW joined and the EMG Foundation to cosponsor a sleeping bag drive for the homeless.

Allen Young

Father of DDC Employee - Allen Young
Dept. 127

Date of Death:  Tuesday, November 24, 2020

Visitation:
Friday, November 27, 2020
Keehn-Griffin Funeral Home
706 W. Main Street
Brighton, MI  48116
(810) 229-9871
2 PM - 8 PM

In State Service:
Saturday, November 28, 2020
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church
2201 S. Old US 23 Highway
Brighton, MI  48114
(810) 229- 8624

Mass Service will begin promptly at 11 am

Every year, as I think about the Thanksgiving holiday, I always try to concentrate on the things that we as a union, and our sisters and brothers in solidarity everywhere, have to be thankful for. And, as always, there is much to be thankful for. But what to say about 2020?

Thomas Maczkowski

Powertrain Retiree
Passed Away - August 18, 2020

James L. Eckert

Powertrain Retiree
Passed Away - August 15, 2020

Geneva Simmons

Powertrain Retiree
Passed Away - August 2, 2020

UAW Local 163
GM Romulus

Ratification Vote Results
Tuesday, November 24, 2020

No - 54%
Yes - 46%

Ryan Martin, Chairperson
Election Committee
Northwest Local 163, UAW

Richard Rednoske

GM Powertrain - Retiree
Passed Away - November 15, 2020

Local 163 President Ralph Morris Jr. talks about the importance of certifying November's election results and making sure that every vote is counted.
Michigan voters decided and are ready to move Michigan forward together. Senator Mike Shirkey and Lee Chatfield should be focused on protecting Michiganders during COVID-19, not undermining the election results.

As UAW members get involved in the communities where they live, they have a deep impact not just on their workplaces and their families, but on our nation. For UAW Administrative Assistant to President Rory L. Gamble, Allen Wilson, that meant a front row seat in the national spotlight as he served on the Wayne County Board of Canvassers.

The stakes? Who will be our nation’s next president.

Detroit - “Enough. Voters in Wayne County, Michigan and throughout this country should know that their votes aren’t subject to some arcane public relations spectacle using the courts and legislative procedures as a hammer to deprive them of their personal Constitutional rights to vote.

Today, in the ultimate insult to voters, the two leaders of Michigan’s Legislature are headed to the White House for an arm-twisting to artfully try to deny the counting of their legitimate votes.

Local 2209 Sends $100k to Vietnam Wall Project with More to Come Members of Local 2209 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, consider it part of their job to make sure the public fully appreciates the sacrifices made more than a half century ago in Vietnam.

Tom Ruszkiewicz

Powertrain Retiree - Passed Away
November 4, 2020

Detroit - “In a challenging year, UAW members during this time of national crisis have pulled together to safely and productively make some of the finest quality vehicles and trucks in the world. This profit statement reflects our UAW members’ commitment to safety as they returned to the plant this spring, and their dedication to the quality and craftsmanship that is second to none.”q

Detroit - UAW International President Rory L. Gamble has received lifetime achievement awards from the Detroit Chapter NAACP and the Western Wayne County NAACP this month honoring his and UAW’s commitment to the fight for social justice.

Gamble, the UAW’s first African American International President, said he was humbled and honored by the award. “This confirms that the work we do at the UAW in fighting for social justice and the rights and dignity of all Americans is recognized by our community.”

Since its inception, since we got here as a nation, America has been about the right to allow its citizens to pick and choose our best and most qualified people for public office. We took a while to get here. We started out with some states allowing only white male adult property owners to vote, with non-whites and women and non-property owners on the outside looking in.

James Eugene Williams
DDC Retiree

Father of DDC Employee - Kevin D. Williams - Dept. 910
&
Brother of DDC Employee - Larry Williams - Dept. 892

Date of Death:  Saturday, October 17, 2020

Vistiation:
Tuesday, October 27, 2020
James H. Cole Funeral Home
16100 Schaefer Highway
Detroit, MI  48235
(313) 835-3997
9 am - 9 pm

UAW President Rory L. Gamble helped launch "Day of Giving" for Detroit's original and only Goodfellows Organization on the WJR Paul W. Smith show on Friday. The show was devoted to discussing and supporting the important work of the Detroit Goodfellows.

DOWNLOAD BROADCAST

 

Harley James Hinton
DDC Retiree

Father of DDC Employee - Jeffory Hinton

Passed Away - October 15, 2020

Nancy Coop

Wife of DDC Retiree - James Coop

Passed Away - September 2, 2020

Louis Cronyn
Detroit Axle - Employee

Son of DDC Employee - Laura Cronyn - Dept. 711
Brother of Detroit Axle Employee - Malcom Cronyn

Date of Death:  Sunday, October 4, 2020

Viewing:
Thursday, October 15, 2020
Fisher Funeral Home
24501 Five Mile Road
Redford, MI  48239
(313) 535-3030

In State Service:
Friday, October 16, 2020
St. Mary of Redford Catholic Church
14750 St. Marys Street
Detroit, MI  48227
(313) 273-1100

This training will be web based and free to Region 1A members.  Participants may register at region1a.uaw.org.  Once registered the participant will be emailed instructions on how to access the training. Members will only be able to register for one class at a time and must complete that class before registering for another class.  You may access the training platform from your PC/laptop, smart phone or tablet.  Courses can be taken at the members’ own pace and on their own time.

Eric D. Cotton
DDC Employee - Dept. 862

Date of Death: Saturday, September 29, 2020

Viewing:
Saturday, October 10, 2020
Andrews Funeral Home
12809 Rosa Parks Blvd
Detroit, MI  48238
(313) 868-4065
3 PM - 5 PM

A private family celebration of life will be held at 5 pm

Detroit -- Our thoughts and prayers are with the President, First Lady and White House staff for a quick recovery from COVID-19. UAW members know all too well the danger of this pandemic and we pray for the health and recovery of all who are infected, exposed or caring for family members.

The 2020 Presidential Election is just weeks away. Never has your vote been more important. Why? Because the progress unions have made over the last decades to build a strong middle class and enable working people to retire in dignity is systematically being whittled away. Let’s take a hard look at how the working men and women of the United States have fared in the last few years.

“UAW members and our nation need Senate leadership to take pause this close to a presidential election and let whoever is rightfully elected to be president in November nominate the next Supreme Court Justice.

Tune in to the first 2020 presidential debate this Tuesday at 9 p.m.ET! Check your local TV listings to find out where to view it or stream the debate on C-SPAN's Youtube channel:

WATCH LIVE >>>

DETROIT - “By committing $71 million in investments at the Toledo Transmission Plant and Defiance Casting Plant, General Motors is demonstrating its commitment to the long history and quality craftsmanship of UAW members. These investments create job security for UAW GM members, their families and the Toledo and Defiance communities.”

On Tuesday, September 29, Senator Elizabeth Warren will host a pre-debate virtual rally with union members from across the Great Lakes State. Senator Warren will discuss what is at stake for labor and working families this November -- including protections for people with pre-existing conditions -- and encourage union members to mobilize their networks to help elect Joe Biden.

Powertrain - Notice of Election

Afternoon Shift

District 5 - Bargaining Committeeperson & Alternate Bargaining Committeeperson

District 6 - Alternate District Committeeperson

Midnight Shift

District # 8 - Alternate District Committeeperson

Election Date
Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Poll Location: Pride Center
3:00 am - 8:00 pm

Laid-Off Members, Members on Medical will vote at the Local 163 Union Hall
450 S. Merriman Road
Westland, MI  48186

Charles R. Lindow Jr.

Father of DDC Committeeman Robert "Bob" Lindow
&
Father in Law of DDC Employee - Darlene Lindow - Dept. 131

Date of Death:  Tuesday, September 22, 2020

Memorial Gathering:

What a sad day for our nation and for all those who stand up and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Ruth Bader Ginsburg blazed a trail for civil rights and women’s rights and the sanctity of our constitution in her 27 years as a Supreme Court Justice. No words can do real justice to her contributions to the highest court in the land and her contributions to our nation. To this courageous champion of women’s rights and worker’s rights and equality for all.

TOLEDO - UAW elected delegates in Ohio and Indiana met today to fill the vacancy of the Regional Director - a position with a seat on the UAW International Executive Board and elected Wayne Blanchard to fill the remainder of the term which ends in June 2022.

The UAW Constitutional procedure made accommodations for Ohio and Indiana social distancing guidelines by conducting meetings at five locations connected remotely. Region 2B has had a vacancy since the resignation of Rich Rankin earlier this summer.

“We are proud today to announce for our Ford UAW members and our nation that Ford is building this new plant to assemble the truck of the future -- a battery electric Ford F-150. Where once the Mustang changed America, UAW members will now build the truck that will change America -- Built Ford Tough by UAW members.”
On this day in UAW history, GM UAW members went on strike to protect benefits, wages and put an end to the two-tier system. The strike was the longest nationwide auto strike in 50 years.
On Tuesday, September 15, we will mark the 57th anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama with a candlelight vigil and ten-point pledge for social, racial and economic justice. We call on all of us here in the United States of America to reject death, whether by racism or economic injustice, and unite to fight for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for everyone. And as we embrace life, we remember those Americans who gave their lives that we might be free—from the beaches of Normandy to the coal camps of West Virginia to the churches of Birmingham and Charleston...

“For far too long it's been a fight to maintain the jobs we have while new automotive products and assembly are sent to Mexico, China and abroad.

Trade enforcement will help. But so too will Joe Biden once and for all closing the offshoring loophole in our tax code, imposing a new offshoring tax penalty and creating Biden’s new “Made in America” tax incentive. These are strong proposals to keep jobs here and more importantly make sure new products stay here built by our UAW workforce.”

Brothers and Sisters, As we celebrate Labor Day this Monday, I want to start by saying Thank You. This year has been utterly unprecedented, and we have had to deal with extraordinary challenges. I want to recognize the hard work and courage of my UAW family in facing this terrible pandemic and working to keep one another safe.
Jermaine Harris of UAW Local 900 was a delegate to last week's Democratic National Convention. Hear why it’s important for American workers to make their voices heard in November and how Jermaine is passing that message on to his children.
FORMER VICE PRESIDENT REMINDS AMERICANS THAT WE CAN DO BETTER On the final day of the convention, UAW members and their messages were featured prominently and Joe Biden accepted his party’s nomination with an inspirational speech reminding Americans that, “We make our greatest progress when we follow the light,” and turn away from the darkness and division that the nation finds itself mired in.

General Membership Meeting
All Units

Sunday, August 30, 2020
10 am

Local 163 Union Hall
450 S. Merriman Road
Westland, MI  48186

Agenda:

Regular Order of Business
Swearing in of New Officers

The meeting will be in the back-parking lot of the Union Hall.  Social distancing of 6 feet apart and masks are required!

Ralph Morris Jr.
President
UAW Local 163

UAW Vice President Terry Dittes, who directs the union’s General Motors’ Department, said he’s “very excited” about the Biden-Harris ticket. Dittes, who as a past Regional Director represented the Scranton region where Biden grew up, said the candidate is well grounded in the everyday lives of UAW members.
SENATOR MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST WOMAN OF COLOR TO RUN FOR VICE PRESIDENT Making history, U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris stood before DNC delegates and accepted the nomination to be Joe Biden’s running mate last evening almost 100 years from the day that the 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote in America.

Executive Board
Officers
Correction

Complete Results
Runoff Election
Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Vice President
#61 - Gary Dotson - 439
#62 - Albert "Al" Byrd - 850 ELECTED

Powertrain Romulus
Complete Results
Runoff Election
Wednesday, August 19, 2020

(All Shifts)
Shop Chairperson

#14 Stephanie (Good) Carpenter - 386
#15 Terence Jones - 429 ELECTED

Ryan Martin, Chairperson
Dawn Brelinski, Co-Chairperson
Election Committee
Northwest Local 163, UAW

As delegates gather online for this year’s historic Democratic National Convention, UAW Vice President Cindy Estrada says this online-only convention is key to success in November, especially for women.

Leadership matters, especially when working families are struggling with the worst public health crisis in a century, which has spurred the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.

For UAW members and their families, the 2020 election comes at a time of great uncertainty about the economy, retirement, health care and a way forward to guide the nation out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just after sunset on a resurgent Detroit, UAW Secretary-Treasurer Ray Curry and U.S. Senator Gary Peters called the Michigan roll for Joe Biden at the 2020 Democratic National Convention live from Belle Isle’s Sunset Point. Secretary-Treasurer Curry said it was a high honor for working families and the UAW because of Biden's long track record of support for labor.

UAW Vice President Gerald Kariem, who directs the union’s National Ford Department, sees the Biden-Harris ticket as a change for the country to get back to steady, measured and effective leadership. “We need folks with a steady hand, empathy and intelligence to be able to do that job,” Kariem said. “This current health care and economic crisis that has been caused by Covid-19 has shifted us into a new way of living. We need strong leadership that guides us, not confuses us.” For Kariem, both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have the kind of upbringing that relates to the needs of working families. In fact, Kariem noted that both have a long history of being on the correct side of issues that are particularly important to UAW members. “The most important thing UAW members should know is that a Biden-Harris ticket will be sensitive to the needs of working families,” he said. “Joe Biden has been in solidarity with the UAW for decades.” However, Kariem stressed the importance of UAW members participating in the process and voting. “Nothing concerns me more than people who don’t take advantage of their opportunity to vote,” Kariem said, adding that he understands why people would have doubts about the importance of voting given the doubts and confusion sown by those who want to keep people from the polls. “We have to help our members, their families and our friends understand what the candidates stand for and how they will help UAW members, working Americans and their families. That has always been a strong part of the UAW’s mission,” Kariem said. It’s a cliché to say that this is the most important election of our lifetimes, but Kariem says what makes this election important is the constant turmoil the nation has been experiencing in recent years. “I would like to double down on that statement and say this is the most important election in the history of this country,” he said. “We are looking to find a less confusing and less chaotic society, as well as less chaotic political discourse.” With Biden winning the nomination and his selection of Harris as his running mate, Kariem said he sees hope for UAW members and America on the horizon.

This month marks the 55th anniversary of the passage of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), one of the most powerful pieces of civil rights legislation in our history. The passage of the VRA into law was the result of decades of struggle and sacrifice and was truly a shining moment in our history.

Unfortunately, the struggle to ensure that all Americans have the right and opportunity to vote not only continues today, we have actually suffered significant losses on this front over the past decade.

Aug. 16, 2020 Sisters and Brothers: For UAW members this year's election is about how we rise to the challenges of tremendous changes we can expect over the next four years. The notion of living through a pandemic was something that I doubt any of us ever thought we would experience. We took our national health and many of our freedoms for granted.

Executive Board
Election Results
Wednesday, August 5th

Detroit Axle
Election Results
Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Powertrain Romulus
Election Results
Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Detroit Diesel Corporation
Election Results
Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Open Letter in Regard to GM: I am not a spokesman for anyone other than myself and the words in this opinion piece are mine and they pertain specifically and solely to me. Since retiring on July 1, 2010, I have avoided speaking to the media. I read with disgust and dismay some newspaper articles pertaining to me yesterday. I do not blame the reporters. They were covering a story based on statements taken from General Motors’ Motion to Alter or Amend Judgment against Fiat Chrysler and others, dated August 3, 2020. I do, however, place the blame squarely on GM for their malicious and utterly baseless attack against me and a supposed “unnamed” member of my family.

Thomas Werner
DDC Retiree

Stepfater of DDC Employee - Jerry Tilley Dept. 563

Grandfather of Nicholas Tilley & Charles Ward Dept. 127

Date of Death: Sunday, August 2, 2020

Visitation:

Wednesday, August 5, 2020
L. J. Griffin Funeral Home
19091 Northville Road
Northville, MI  48168
(248) 348-1233
1:30 PM - 8 PM

Funeral Service:

“Outside the bubble of Washington, D.C. our families continue to struggle with an economy devastated by this pandemic. This impacts UAW members, their families, their communities and their jobs, all of which depend on a resilient economy. This issue needs to be solved.

In the short term, families need a temporary extension of current benefits, including the $600 a week supplemental unemployment until a final bill is resolved.

UAW Local 163
Jones Lang Lasalle - Romulus
Ratification Results

91% - Yes

9% - No

Jerry Ferguson

DDC Retiree

Passed Away - July 24, 2020

Visitation

Harry J. Will Funeral Home
25450 Plymouth Road
Redford, MI  48239
3 PM - 8 PM

Funeral 

St. Andrews Presbyterian Church
26701 Joy Road
Dearborn Heights, MI
11 AM

"The world John Lewis leaves behind is a very different world than the one he entered, in large measure because of his courage, tenacity and belief in the human spirit. Our own UAW history is forever linked to John Lewis and our support in Selma. Today, UAW members lost a friend; the nation lost a civil rights leader; and the world lost a human rights legend. But we will never lose the spirit and legacy he forged from the days of Walter Reuther to today. John Lewis leaves mankind better and we are grateful for it."

Today in Boston, Mass., a lawsuit filed by Harvard University and MIT challenging Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) new directive on student visas was heard. The UAW immediately filed an amicus brief in support of the Harvard/MIT lawsuit, held demonstrations at ICE headquarters and state capitols across the country and stood with the Attorney Generals in Massachusetts. Connecticut, New York, Washington, and California to launch their own challenges. And we succeeded.

Paul Parker Newton Sr.

Father of DDC Employee:  Paul Newton - Dept. 852

Date of Death:  Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Visitation:
Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Swanson Funeral Home
14751 West McNichols
Detroit, MI  48235
(313) 272-9000
1 PM - 4 PM

Funeral Service:
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Swanson Funeral Home
14751 West McNichols
Detroit, MI  48235
(313) 272-9000
11 AM

William "Bill" Braden

OCC Employee

Date of Death:  July 12, 2020

Robert James Sensing
DDC Retiree

Father of DDC Employee - James (Tony) Sensing - Dept. 126

Date of Death:  Thursday, July 2, 2020

Vistation:

Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Wagner and Walsh Funeral Home
143 Lake Street
Roscommon, MI  48653
(989) 275-3600

The Funeral Service will begin immediately after the visitation service at 1:00 PM.

Students say the outsourcing issue cuts to the heart of what the institution’s values are. EVENTS SHOW HOW WE CAN ALL HELP EACH OTHER The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of solidarity is “unity (as of a group or class) that produces or is based on community of interests, objectives, and standards.” With the UAW, that is always the case, but three recent situations involving UAW members clearly show what the word is in action.

Jeanette Marie Pionk

Mother of DDC Employee - Michael Pionk
Dept. 197

Date of Death: Sunday, June 28, 2020

Patricia Frances German
DDC Retiree

Mother of DDC Employees - Deanna German & Colleen Warkne - Dept. 127

Date of Death: Satuday, June 27, 2020

EARTHQUAKES, HURRICANES AND A PANDEMIC HAVE HIT THE ISLAND HARD It’s been a difficult stretch for Puerto Rico in the last couple of years. People there have been hit with hurricanes, earthquakes and now a pandemic. But whatever challenge is thrown at our 5,000 members who work at a variety of public and private entities, they know their UAW family is ready to pitch in.
CAMBRIDGE, MA -- Student workers at Harvard University made history today, voting in favor of ratifying their first union contract. The one-year contract agreement with the university will improve pay and benefits for over 4,000 student workers, and guarantee health and safety protections in the midst of a pandemic. The contract strengthens protections for student workers against discrimination and harassment, including racial discrimination and sexual harassment, and includes new provisions aimed at increasing job security for international student workers.
U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider and UAW President Rory Gamble jointly announce that they had a productive and helpful first meeting to begin negotiations to further the cause of reform in the United Auto Workers union. U.S. Attorney Schneider welcomed the opportunity to sit down with the UAW’s President in order to work together toward improving the union for all its members. President Gamble appreciated the chance to meet with the Department of Justice so as to further his efforts at reforming the organization and to ensure integrity in the union’s leadership.
Brothers and Sisters, When I accepted the office of the presidency, I pledged to keep you updated on all of our reforms and progress on restoring our member’s trust in leadership. As you know, we have instituted a comprehensive reforms agenda and top-to-bottom review of our operations and financial house.
Everyone has a role to play in the battle against COVID-19. Whether they are an academic researcher looking for a drug to fight the deadly virus, an autoworker making a quick pivot to manufacture ventilators and masks or shields, a maintenance worker disinfecting the plant, or a health care worker making sure the sick can receive treatment, UAW members are courageously doing what they can to battle COVID-19. They are the heart and soul of the union. Here are just a few of the stories of UAW members stepping up to the challenge the world finds itself in today:
On June 27, 2018, the Supreme Court dealt a major blow to organized labor in the now famous Janus v. AFSCM case
MAY WE NEVER WITNESS THIS AGAIN By Ray Curry, Secretary-Treasurer, UAW Over the past weeks across the nation, united demonstrations have made the message clear: People have had enough of the ongoing struggle for equality and equity, of the battle against systemic injustice, and the fear of being a person of color in America.

UAW Region 1A - Chuck Browning
2020 - Union Pioneer Scholarship Winners

The Spring 2020 edition of Solidarity magazine is now online! The latest edition of Solidarity magazine salutes our own heroes who are fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in a variety of ways, from courageously going back to the plants to make PPE and ventilators to volunteering in the community and much more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has sent our world into a public health and economic tailspin. As of May, the national unemployment rate was at 13.3%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In Michigan, it is a staggering 21.2% — worse than the Great Recession. The Washington Post reports that more than 100,000 businesses have closed permanently.
On June 23, 1963, over 125,000 people marched down Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan in the 'Walk to Freedom.' The march was the largest civil rights demonstration at the time highlighting the injustices African Americans faced across the country.
For Gerald Kariem, Juneteenth feels even more special in Detroit. So many successful Black Americans today are descendants of the millions of men and women who left the south for work in the north starting back in 1916 to build Ford cars.
Today, we take time to honor the memory of our lost brother, George Floyd. We will sit still, we will put down our tools and silence our phones for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. A full eight minutes and 46 seconds -- the agonizing amount of time that Mr. Floyd lay on the pavement begging for his life.
Dear Sisters and Brothers, As trade unionists and as Americans, we were outraged and heartsick at the horror of George Floyd’s death on May 25. It was yet another tragedy in a long and sorrowful history of the divisiveness of racism in this nation. Since that day in communities from coast to coast, we have seen Americans from all walks of life, black, brown and white, stand together to demand change. To demand – finally – that we address the systemic racial divide that has plagued our nation since its inception.

Joseph Hawley

Father of DDC Employee
Rebecca Airasolo - Dept. 127

Date of Death:  Monday, June 8, 2020

My Sisters and Brothers, I want to begin this message by recognizing the strength and courage of this union and each and every one of you. These past couple of months have been extraordinarily difficult for all of us — and for all of America. And as we work to open up our economy and go back to work, I know there are so many concerns and fears.
Dear Sisters and Brothers, On May 19, two dams in mid-Michigan failed, leading to massive floods that devastated families in that area. Over 11,000 people were evacuated, and thousands of homes were destroyed. There is always a difficult road to rebuilding after this kind of tragedy, but it is even more challenging to do so in the age of COVID-19.
“I would like to recognize and commend everyone who plays an integral part as essential workers across the UAW, with a special emphasis on my brothers and sisters who perform cleanup duties. We have always known our value and worth with the jobs we perform, from the roof tops and tanks to the tunnels below, to keep our plants running smoothly...

UAW Local 163 statement on Racial Justice and the brutal murder of George Floyd

Gail Hermann

Mother of DDC Employee - Bill Hermann

Emma Mosley

Mother of DDC Employee - Alicia Boggs

Passed Away - Tuesday, May 26th

Melvin Cummins
DDC Retiree

Father of DDC Employee - Steve Cummins

Passed Away - June 1, 2020

Visitation

UAW President Rory Gamble is calling on American's to come together in the wake of the death of George Floyd, and the disturbances that followed.  WWJ AutoBeat Reporter Jeff Gilbert spoke with Gamble...

Richard "Moe" Morris

Former Vice President - UAW Local 163
DDC Retiree

The Union Plus Mortgage Assistance Program is a solid resource for union members during difficult times, especially during a layoff. The program, administered through the AFL-CIO Mutual Benefit Plan, provides interest-free loans and grants to help make mortgage payments for members who are disabled, unemployed, locked out or on strike, or on layoff. Members who qualify for the Mortgage Assistance loan benefit also receive a one-time grant of $1,000.

UAW Local 862 member and registered nurse Michelle Crumbie has worked in a hospital as an X-ray technician, and as a nurse in the hospital, the local health department and as a veteran’s benefits representative.

Derek Bell

DDC Employee

I want to send a message to the family of George Floyd. I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through in these hours after your son’s tragic and needless death. As a father and grandfather, I want to personally extend my most heartfelt sympathy to your family.

This global pandemic is a worldwide tragedy on so many levels for so many people, and the full impact is still an unknown. But what is not unknown is one undeniable, shameful story of inequality, of lost opportunity, of wasted minds and hearts, and of unnecessary pain and suffering.

When Ford Motor Company’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, stopped production in March to prevent the spread of COVID-19, UAW Local 862 member and registered nurse Denise Butsch remained on duty. As one of the local’s six nurses, she answered calls and talked with members who had questions about the virus and resources, or anxiety surrounding the pandemic...
This Memorial Day, let us all take time to remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country...
The dangers of COVID-19 mean that UAW Local 2320 member Daniela Juarez, who works with the Migrant Farmworker Project in Wisconsin, doesn’t meet with her clients in person. She spends a lot of time talking with them on the phone. In person or not, her assistance is vital as many of her Spanish-speaking clients are challenged by lack of access to public areas where they depend on technology to help them get information, file forms or apply for unemployment insurance benefits, says Juarez, who assists migrant and seasonal farmworkers throughout Wisconsin.

Dean Cote

Father of DDC Employee - Paul Cote

Passed Away - Monday, May 11, 2020

Sisters and Brothers, I want to address some of the comments and questions I’ve been hearing over the past few days concerning testing for the COVID-19 virus. Last week, UAW International staff members in Michigan received COVID-19 testing.
UAW Local 2320 National Organization of Legal Services Workers (NOLSW) represents more than 4,500 members across the country. They are UAW’s only national amalgamated local union. Its members provide free legal services to low income residents needing assistance with housing, domestic violence, safety net services, health care and more...

John Shannon

DDC Retiree
Passed Away - May 8, 2020

Walter P. Reuther is an icon and an American hero of the working class. For those of us at the UAW, there are almost no words powerful enough to describe what he means to this union and our members. And for me, as the current president of the UAW, I am so humbled and inspired by his vision, his life’s work, his tireless fight for human and civil rights and simply put, the example he set as an extraordinary human being...
We all knew this day would come at some point. While the companies have the sole contractual right to determine the opening of plants, our UAW focus and role is and will continue to be, on health and safety protocols in which we have the contractual right to protect our members.
“Throughout this worldwide crisis, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been a leading voice to make sure that scientific data and the health and safety of all Michiganders was the priority in managing pandemic decisions. Governor Whitmer has at all times been inclusive and focused on building consensus to do what is right for the health and safety of UAW members and all of Michigan’s working men and women...
“As we stated yesterday in regard to FCA, the UAW has and continues to have dialogue with all of our employers and employment sectors about the safety and security surrounding reopening worksites. In the case of the Big 3, through the Task Force we have had an ongoing dialogue and we have supported a number of measures put in place to address Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines from GM, FCA and Ford to protect our health and safety in the plant. Our volunteer members and the companies have done great work to reconfigure plants to achieve this safety goal. We continue to advocate for as much testing as possible at the current time and eventually full testing when available. As for the start date, the companies contractually make that decision and we all knew this day would come at some point. Our UAW focus and role is and will continue to be, on health and safety protocols to protect our members. My own family will be among those that will be reporting and my responsibility to our UAW members and my family will be consistent. We must implement and follow these guidelines and self-reporting procedures we have worked out. And the UAW will fulfill its role to continue to actively monitor and aggressively respond regarding all issues impacting the health and safety of UAW members in whatever manner may be necessary as we return to the worksite.”
“The UAW has and continues to have dialogue with all of our employers and employment sectors about the safety and security surrounding reopening worksites. In the case of the Big 3, through the Task Force we have had an ongoing dialogue and we have supported a number of measures put in place to address Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines from FCA, GM and Ford to protect our health and safety in the plant. Our volunteer members and the companies have done great work to reconfigure plants to achieve this safety goal.

Gordon Whitlock

OMF - Employee
Passed Away - May 4, 2020

Larry Wilbur

Father of OMF Employee - Bill Wilbur

TO ALL DETROIT DIESEL/DETROIT AXLE HOURLY EMPLOYEES:

Coronavirus-Related Distribuiton from your VOYA Personal Savings Plan-401(k)

A letter from Vice President Terry Dittes pertaining to the CARES Act and Personal Savings Plan

“We continue to engage in talks with Ford on an ongoing basis regarding protocols for the health and safety of our members in the workplace. The UAW is asking for as much testing as is possible to prevent exposure to the virus. That said, we also understand that the availability and accuracy of tests are fluid, developing issues as we navigate this crisis. ..
Our Union Plus program partners have accommodations for members struggling during this public health crisis. Participants in our Union Plus Mortgage, Credit Card, Personal Loan, or Supplemental Insurance programs may be eligible for additional hardship assistance through the Union Plus Mortgage Assistance Program and Union Plus Hardship Help. Visit unionplus.org and follow Union Plus on Facebook at facebook.com/unionplus for ongoing program updates and resources.
The brave men and women who are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis are getting a little help from a group of dedicated Detroiters who got together to deliver daily meals to these hardworking frontline responders. The UAW has supported the project with a donation of $25,000.
When UAW members pledge to support each other, they do not mean just fellow UAW members. The sense of brotherhood and sisterhood is not only about working conditions, fair wages and benefits for UAW members — it’s about supporting the whole community, ensuring healthy lives and doing our part as a family of people creating rewarding lives in this country and around the world. Nothing could illustrate this fact more than the thousands of UAW members who have volunteered to work around the clock with companies in every sector to manufacture much-needed medical equipment during this time of crisis. Read more on detroitnews.com >>>
My Brothers and Sisters, Today, on Workers Memorial Day, we recognize all of the UAW family members whom we have lost to workplace incidents, the COVID-19 pandemic and a tragic mass shooting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin earlier this year. It is always important for us to mark the loss of any of our brothers and sisters, but in the extraordinary days and weeks of this global crisis, our losses seem even more poignant. On behalf of myself and the entire International Executive Board, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends and communities of these brothers and sisters.
For UAW members and workers everywhere, there is never a time when workplace safety should take a backseat to any workplace issue. Never has that been more true than it is today, as the world is dealing with the COVID-19 crisis. During this heartbreaking season of loss, the UAW has continued to stand as a fierce advocate for tough, science-based safeguards and measures. As reports of the coronavirus surfaced, UAW leadership quickly began monitoring reports, implementing precautions and working with employers to educate workers and implement stringent workplace safety measures...

Danny Martin

GM Retiree

Passed Away - April 27, 2020

My Brothers and Sisters, I want to start my message today by commending the brave UAW Ford, FCA and GM men and women who have stepped up and agreed to serve as paid volunteers, to go back into production facilities to begin readying them for a restart date. That effort began today, and these dedicated volunteers will play a critical role in putting our members’ safety first as we get our economy back to work. These members will be helping to ensure that the plants meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) health and safety COVID-19 protocols.
David Gordon, Associate Researcher and transitioning to Associate Professor Krogan Lab, University of California, San Francisco, UAW Local 5810 “I was wrapping up a genetic interaction mapping project on HIV in January when we became aware of the new coronavirus. Since then, we've been working around the clock to find the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 proteins and human proteins. By uncovering the human proteins that enable the spread of the virus, we are able to identify existing FDA-approved drugs which might be repurposed for COVID-19 patients.
My Sisters and Brothers, As we come together at the end of another week, I want to talk a little about what you may have seen in the news and in my messages over these past few days. What is dominating the news cycles, the stock market, our state and local governments and all of our conversations across all sectors is how do we stay safe as we plan for a restart of our economy.
At this point in time, the UAW does not believe the scientific data is conclusive that it is safe to have our members back in the workplace. We have not done enough testing to really understand the threat our members face. We want to make sure the scientific data is supportive and every possible health protocols and enhanced protections are in place before UAW members walk into the workplace...
What does it really mean to have a voice in your workplace? The extraordinary global crisis that we are all facing has put this into sharp focus. And at the forefront of this pandemic are essential workers -- those front line employees in hospitals, grocery stores, transportation industries, security and firefighters, warehouses, construction sites and more. For those who are union members with a collective bargaining agreement, their voices are heard. The power of union representation allows them to demand safety improvements, have a say in their workplace, their schedules and so much more. In short, they have a voice that is heard, something that non-union workers lack.

Letter from UAW Vice President on the 30 day - Temporary Rule

My Sisters and Brothers, In my message today, I’d like to talk a little more personally about this extraordinary time in our history and the resilience of my UAW family. I have been with this union for more than 40 years, starting out in the plant as a young man. Like most of us, I have never seen anything like what we’re facing today and could never have anticipated living through times like these. I know that so many of you, like me, have lost loved ones and are grieving those losses. And I know you worry everyday about your families, your communities and what the coming weeks will mean for us all.
“Members of the Auto Coronavirus Task Force have been working daily on best practices for the health and safety of UAW Ford, General Motors and FCA members. This evening President Gamble talked with principles from all three companies. These talks are fluid and ongoing to ensure safe protocols are followed when the companies reopen...
Detroit - The UAW International Board Tuesday announced the influential unions’ endorsement of former Vice President Joe Biden for President of the United States. “In these dangerous and difficult times, the country needs a president who will demonstrate clear, stable leadership, less partisan acrimony and more balance to the rights and protections of working Americans,” said Rory Gamble, President of the UAW. “UAW Members need a federal government that ensures that members have both a good job to go to, and that they come home to their families at night having earned a fair day's wage in a safe and secure place.”
Debby Hollis doesn’t make a big fuss about things. She just acts. That is exactly what she did when she signed on to make Ventec critical care ventilators capable of supporting patients fighting COVID-19. “I don’t like to get into a panic about things. I just do what is needed,” says the Local 292 member. “There was no question that I would do this. I feel like it is my obligation as a union member and as an employee.”
My Sisters and Brothers, In today’s message, I’d like to once again thank all of my UAW family for everything you’re doing to help keep our communities and our nation safe. We have so many stories of UAW members stepping up in so many different ways to help out. Members going back into plants to make critically needed personal protective equipment and ventilators, members setting up mask-making operations in their homes, local food banks, volunteering to assist neighbors — helping out in every way you can think of.
Yesterday, UAW Local 292 workers at GM in Kokomo, Indiana sent off the first boxes of ventilators. Not only have UAW members jumped into action to help their fellow community members, but they signed the boxes to help give hope to the hospital workers and people suffering from COVID-19. Check out the boxes and the heartfelt post, here.
My Sisters and Brothers, In today’s message, I’m happy to report an update on the extraordinary efforts of our UAW family members who are producing ventilators at the GM facility in Kokomo, Indiana. When the call came in March, our members stepped up immediately to courageously volunteer their time, going through rigorous safety training at the GM facility so they could begin work producing the critically needed ventilators that will save lives. This month will see the first delivery of more than 600 ventilators with thousands more to come over the next several months. A total of 30,000 ventilators are expected to be produced by this August.
The UAW International Executive Board is saddened by the passing today of our brother and former UAW Vice President Cal Rapson. Rapson’s career as a trade unionist and community leader began in 1965 when he joined UAW Local 659 while working at the General Motors Chevrolet Engine Plant in Flint, Michigan. A Michigan State University (MSU) student at the time, Rapson intended only to work one summer shift at GM. Instead, he committed a lifetime to helping advance the UAW’s fight for social and economic justice. In 2008 MSU recognized Rapson with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree for his life’s work and dedication to labor.
My Brothers and Sisters, I am very pleased to share some positive news today that, once again, speaks to how our UAW family is stepping up to help out during this worldwide crisis. As we all know, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is critical to keeping our frontline health care workers and others safe from infection as they care for others and keep our communities functioning. Yesterday, we announced that the UAW, working with Ford Motor Company, has taken another step in responding to the COVID-19 crisis by shifting more production to face masks for medical use, PPE and respirators. Our UAW Ford members continue to volunteer to report to work during this difficult time as we expand at the facility across from Flat Rock, Michigan to make respirators. And UAW Ford members are continuing to make face masks for medical use at the Van Dyke Transmission Plant.

Together with Ford, the UAW continues to respond to the COVID-19 crisis by shifting production to face masks for medical use, personal protective equipment and respirators. UAW Ford members continue to step up and volunteer to work during this difficult time as we expand at the facility across from Flat Rock to make respirators and at the Van Dyke Transmission Plant to make face masks for medical use.

My Sisters and Brothers, Just a short message today on behalf of myself and the entire International Executive Board, to wish our UAW family all the best on this holiday weekend. Many of us are observing religious holidays; and while our celebrations may be different this year, we are still with one another in spirit and in faith. And it is that commonality that will see us through this terrible worldwide crisis.
The day COVID-19 shutdown the Warren (Michigan) Technical Center is the day Travis Fick jumped wholeheartedly into the fight against the virus. “It was a Friday. I believe March 20. I had been paying attention, so I knew there was a shortage of personal protection equipment, so I started a Facebook group to see what we could do,” says the Local 160 member. Immediately, he posted information about the need to get protection gear to medical professionals. He called businesses like dentist offices that had closed because they were not essential, but might have N95 masks, gloves, medical gowns and caps, or anything that could be used on the front lines.

Linda Ritter

Mother of DDC Employee - Dale Ritter
Passed Away on April 4, 2020

Tune in 2 p.m. (EDT) Friday, April 10, for a free webinar that offers expert information for those still working outside the home during the coronavirus pandemic. The event, Workplace Safety in a Pandemic: Slowing the Spread of Coronavirus and Communicable Diseases, is sponsored by Cornell University ILR Worker Institute. Register now at https://bit.ly/2JR2MFb.

My Brothers and Sisters, I’d like to talk a little today about the loss of my good friend and former UAW Secretary-Treasurer Ruben Burks. Ruben passed on Monday, another casualty in this terrible pandemic. He was truly a gentleman and a tireless fighter for working men and women, for our members and for what is right and just. He served this union tirelessly for decades, starting at the GM Fisher Body Plant 2 in Flint, Michigan. He quickly rose through the UAW ranks, serving as committee person, executive board member and director of Region 1C. I will be forever grateful for his leadership and his friendship. And in thinking about my dear union brother and his contributions, I take strength in the fact that Ruben was one of so many dedicated individuals who have served this union.
My Sisters and Brothers, I’m pleased to bring you some more stories today of the good works of our UAW family during this terrible crisis. I’ve shared stories in the past weeks of our brave members on the front lines of this pandemic, but we have many members helping out in so many different ways across the nation. I’d like to share a different type of story today.
On March 13, Penni Cox was laid off from her job at the General Motors plant in Kokomo, Indiana. “Business wasn’t good, and the company was downsizing. We prayed for more work. We were willing to build anything. We just wanted to work,” says Cox. “And now, here we are building ventilators.” Cox, a mother and grandmother, is a third-generation autoworker and member of UAW Local 292, and is proud and excited to contribute to the COVID-19 fight.

The UAW International Executive Board is deeply saddened by the passing today of beloved former UAW Secretary-Treasurer Ruben Burks.

“It is never easy losing a member of the UAW family, and it is especially hard when it is someone like my union brother Ruben Burks, who gave so much to members and the union that he loved,” said UAW President Rory L. Gamble. “He was a gentleman, and a fighter for what is right and just. I am forever thankful for his leadership and his friendship.”

My Brothers and Sisters, Just a short message on this Monday afternoon as we move into another week of this worldwide crisis. Today, I’d like to start with the news of an amazing milestone. I’ve spoken before of our brave UAW men and women who are working tirelessly at the Ford Plymouth, Michigan plant producing much needed face shields to protect those on the front lines of this pandemic. In just 13 days, since this effort began, our UAW members have produced 1 million face shields. This vital Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has been shipped to numerous health care facilities in several states, one of the hardest hit being New York.

“We could not be prouder of the UAW members that have volunteered to make such a difference at this critical time in our history. These UAW Ford Members have sacrificed beyond themselves for all of us.”

UAW Local 245 member Robert Nader gets antsy sitting still. Instead of going stir-crazy, he signed up for a job that would keep him busy and hopefully save lives. He is making face shields to help fight the spread of the devastating COVID-19 virus. “It’s not just me. It’s a lot of different people in here coming together to help,” said Nader. “The medical community really needs these masks and other personal protection equipment right now.”

Correspondence from UAW Vice President on the Cares Act and it's impact on our SUB benefit

My Brothers and Sisters, Today brought more news of members and hard-working men and women stepping up to help our first line responders and their families and communities during these difficult days. We have members who have courageously volunteered their time, going through rigorous safety training at the GM Kokomo, Indiana, facility as they begin their work to make ventilators that will save lives. One of the first UAW workers to volunteer there said that she thought of her elderly mom as someone who might need this life-saving equipment.
UAW Local 95 member Sandy Welch is a five-year cancer survivor. She has high blood pressure, too. That means her immune system is not 100%. But, while others in Wisconsin are told to stay home, she heads to work every day as a medical transcriptionist at a medical clinic in Janesville. “I have a compromised immune system and sometimes I think about that, but I don’t let that take over my thoughts,” she said.
Sisters and Brothers, A short message today to recognize the courageous men and women stepping up to help all of us during these difficult days. As you all know, we have many members on the front lines of this crisis, who report to work every day and put their lives at risk to keep our communities safe and functioning. And we have members who are stepping up and volunteering to help save lives in so many ways.

“As our Nation struggles with the Covid-19 pandemic, volunteer UAW-GM members are doing a tremendous service for our country by volunteering to come to work to make ventilators in Kokomo.

Brothers and Sisters, I want to start this message by, again, thanking my UAW family for your strength and your support of your communities and families as we all work through this terrible crisis together. I’m very sad to report that we had one more UAW member fall to the virus yesterday, from Ford Michigan Assembly in Wayne, Michigan. I want to extend our sincere sympathies to family and friends.
My sisters and brothers, I want to start today by thanking my UAW family for supporting one another during this crisis. I have been so impressed to see how our members are pulling together and supporting one another as we navigate this unprecedented situation.
Wilma Liebman Hired as Chief Ethics Officer - Ethics Advisory Committee Announced - DETROIT – UAW President Rory L. Gamble and the International Executive Board (IEB) announced the appointment today of Wilma Liebman as the Union’s first-ever external Ethics Officer. Liebman is a distinguished public servant and expert in labor policy who served as the Chairman of the National Labor Relations Board under President Barack Obama from 2009-2011, having previously been appointed as a member of the NLRB by both Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush beginning in 1997. Additionally, the UAW has launched a new confidential Ethics Hotline for union members to report ethical or financial violations.

“Today’s decision by Ford is the right decision for our members, their families and our nation. Under Vice President Gerald Kariem, the UAW Ford Department continues to work closely with our local unions and Ford to make sure that when we return to production all members are safe, and our communities are protected from this spreading pandemic.”

Sisters and Brothers, We have been notified today that two more members of our UAW family have fallen to the virus. One member worked at Ford Motor Company Dearborn Stamping and a skilled trades brother who worked at the Ford Data Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Our prayers and support go out to their families and communities.
My Brothers and Sisters, As always, I want to recognize and thank all of the brave men and women on the front lines of this crisis and extend my sincere sympathies to any one of us who is sick, or struggling with family or financial issues or loss in these difficult, dark days. In my message today, I want to report that we got some good news on several fronts.