Women's History Month - Lashawn English
During Women's History Month, we recognize the women who have broken barriers and strengthened the labor movement. One of those leaders is LaShawn English, whose career in the United Auto Workers reflects dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to working people.
From Skilled Trades to Union Leadership
LaShawn English’s union journey began in the skilled trades. She first became a member of United Association Building Trades Local 370, where she earned her journeyman credentials as a steamfitter and licensed plumber. She later hired into the Stellantis Sterling Stamping Plant as a pipefitter and became active in United Auto Workers through UAW Local 1264.
From early on, English stepped into leadership. She served on the election committee, spent three terms as recording secretary, and represented members as a skilled trades delegate for more than a decade. She also served on the National Skilled Trades Council and later became a national negotiator for Stellantis from 2015 to 2019.
Her experience and commitment eventually led to her election as President of UAW Local 1264, where she served three terms and became the first woman of color to hold that role.
Making History in Region 1
In December 2022, English made history when she was elected Director of UAW Region 1, becoming the first woman and the first woman of color to serve in that position.
Region 1 represents tens of thousands of active and retired union members across multiple counties in Southeast Michigan and even parts of Canada.
Her election represented more than a personal achievement. It symbolized a growing recognition of women’s leadership within the labor movement and opened doors for more women to step into leadership roles within the union.
Leadership in the Women’s Department
In 2024, English was appointed Director of the UAW Women’s Department, where she works to mobilize and empower women across the union. The department focuses on leadership development, activism, and ensuring women have a strong voice in workplace and legislative issues that affect working families.
Through this role, she continues to encourage women across the labor movement to become active in their locals, run for leadership positions, and advocate for fairness and equality in the workplace.
A Voice for Workers and Communities
Throughout more than two decades in the labor movement, English has remained active not only in union leadership but also in community advocacy. She serves on boards and organizations including the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, the A. Philip Randolph Institute, IndustriALL Global Union, and the NAACP.
Her work reflects a broader vision of the labor movement—one that connects workplace justice with community empowerment and economic fairness.
“What Up, Doe?” — Leadership with a Detroit Spirit
Anyone who has met LaShawn English knows she brings authenticity to leadership. Her well-known Detroit greeting, “What up, doe?”, reflects the connection she builds with members.
It’s more than a phrase—it’s a reminder that union leadership should stay grounded in the culture and communities of the membership. English’s leadership style reflects that same spirit: approachable, engaged, and focused on uplifting working people.
Continuing the Legacy
LaShawn English’s career represents the impact women have had—and continue to have—within the labor movement. From the skilled trades to regional leadership and the UAW Women’s Department, she has helped shape a stronger, more inclusive union.
During Women’s History Month, leaders like LaShawn English remind us that progress in labor is built by those willing to step forward, break barriers, and fight for the next generation of workers.
Her journey shows that leadership in the labor movement isn’t just about positions—it’s about commitment to solidarity, opportunity, and justice for working families.