On Sunday, former United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard, the longest-serving leader in the union’s history, passed away. Gerard is remembered as a relentless advocate for his members, a champion of international solidarity, and a leader who oversaw a remarkable period of growth for the USW.
“Leo was a great supporter of labor art and culture,” recalls former Labor Heritage Foundation Executive Director Elise Bryant. “In 2012, Brother Gerard was honored by LHF with the Solidarity Forever award. Instead of giving a long speech, he presented an excerpt from a play about the history of the Steelworkers. The full production was later staged at the Steelworkers convention and received a standing ovation from the membership.”
USW International President David McCall added, “He inspired countless other workers to carry on the fight for justice and fairness. He will be missed, but we intend to honor his legacy by continuing that work.”