Meet Roxanne Brown: A Trailblazer in Labor Leadership

In a landmark moment for the labor movement, Roxanne Brown is set to become the first African American woman elected as the President of the United Steelworkers (USW), the largest industrial union in North America. Her transition into this pivotal role is scheduled for March and symbolizes not just a personal achievement but a significant shift in the leadership dynamics of labor organizations, reflecting the diverse demographics of today’s workforce.

Early Life and Inspirations

Roxanne Brown’s journey began in Kingston, Jamaica, where she was born before relocating to New York at just two years old. Raised by what she affectionately calls “the Amazons” — a family of strong, single women deeply involved in healthcare and unions — her formative years were steeped in labor values. Brown’s early exposure to the labor movement came through her experiences with the nurses’ union and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) in New York. This community influence set the stage for her lifelong commitment to labor rights and leadership.

A Career Built on Advocacy

Reflecting on her path to leadership, Brown shared insights about her extensive career in labor advocacy. “I cut my teeth in our policy shop, and I had to learn about our core issues and our core values,” she explained. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to fighting for union members across various sectors, contributing to a strong and equitable labor movement.

Diversity and Representation

As she takes the helm of the USW, Brown’s leadership marks a crucial change in representation within the union. “We are the most diverse union in North America…we’re cradle to grave and have everything in between,” she stated. Under her guidance, the union aims to reflect the varied backgrounds of its members; the new board will be the most diverse in the union’s history, aligning with their commitment to inclusivity.

Navigating Challenges

Steering a predominantly male union, Brown is acutely aware of the unique challenges that lie ahead. She noted the common stereotypes associated with the union, stating, “When people think about our union, there’s an image that comes to mind that does not look like me.” To combat this, she advocates for a more inclusive image and representation that transcends outdated stereotypes. The current economic landscape, marked by tariffs and uncertainty, adds another layer of complexity that she is prepared to face.

Brown elaborated, “This current environment of tariffs is not strategic and creates uncertainty…not just for sectors but for our ability to use the tools we’ve relied on for survival.” Her pragmatic approach to these challenges includes strategies rooted in education, engagement, and advocacy, emphasizing the need for active participation at all governmental levels.

Leadership and Community

Brown’s vision extends beyond her leadership role; she sees her ascent as a door opener for others. “Leadership should always reflect who is being led,” she remarked. This sentiment is central to her mission: to inspire others who see themselves in her journey. “It is not about us alone; it is about what we represent and showing what is possible to our members who look like us,” she asserted.

Contributions of USW Members

Beneath Brown’s leadership, the USW oversees the production of a wide range of essential products, illustrating the union’s pivotal role in various industries. Members of the USW produce everything from tires for Goodyear and Bridgestone Firestone to Libby glassware, Starbucks cups, and even components used in high-tech devices like smartphones. The scope of their work extends to various sectors, including health care, construction, and consumer goods.

A Vision for the Future

As Roxanne Brown prepares to step into her new role, her vision for the USW incorporates a strategy of engagement and empowerment. “Engage, engage, engage—because we are charged to do that on behalf of our membership,” she emphasized, underscoring her dedication to the union’s core mission and its membership.

Through her leadership, Brown not only aims to uplift the voices of union members but also to reshape the narrative surrounding labor representation in the 21st century. Her journey is not just about personal achievements but resonates as a collective call to action for diversity, representation, and inclusivity in the labor movement.

Explore more about Roxanne Brown’s journey and the impact she hopes to bring to the labor movement by catching her full interview here.