Roxanne Brown: First African American and First Woman President of the United Steelworkers

December 3, 2025

Roxanne Brown is poised to make history in March as the first African American woman elected President of the United Steelworkers, North America's largest industrial union. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York by strong women involved in healthcare and unions, Brown spent her entire career advocating for workers across multiple sectors, starting in the union's policy division. She will lead the organization's most diverse board ever, representing a union membership that spans numerous industries and backgrounds.

Who is affected

Roxanne Brown (incoming USW President)
United Steelworkers (USW) membership across multiple sectors in North America
The USW board, which will be the most diverse in the union's history
Workers in industrial sectors affected by tariffs and economic pressures
African American union members and future leaders who will see representation in top leadership

What action is being taken

Brown is joining Rev. Mark Thompson on Make It Plain to discuss her upcoming presidency
The official leadership transition is happening in March
Brown is engaging in advocacy and education efforts at all governmental levels on behalf of union members

Why it matters

This represents a significant shift in labor movement leadership that reflects the demographics of today's diverse workforce. Brown's election breaks barriers as the first African American woman to lead the USW, demonstrating what is possible for members who share her background and opening doors for future diverse leadership. Her leadership comes at a critical time when the union faces economic challenges including tariff uncertainty that threatens workers' livelihoods and the strategic tools unions have traditionally relied upon for survival.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint