Press Releases
DPE has media staff in Washington, D.C. to handle inquiries from journalists on issues related to professionals in unions. To schedule an interview with a member of the DPE staff, contact Katie Barrows at kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org or call 202-638-0320 ext. 15 or 202-549-5991.
DPE Remembers Former United Steelworkers International President Leo W. Gerard
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Katie Barrows
Communications Director
P: 202-549-5991
Kbarrows@dpeaflcio.org
WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2025—DPE President Jennifer Dorning released the following statement in response to the news of the passing of former United Steelworkers (USW) international president Leo W. Gerard:
“President Gerard was a remarkable leader who committed his life to standing up for the rights of working people. His over 50-year career is defined by his efforts to grow USW as well as the global labor movement. President Gerard was instrumental in ensuring that workers across industries had the power to achieve a fair return on their work. He will be missed.
My thoughts are with President Gerard’s family, friends, and USW siblings during this difficult time. Rest in power, President Gerard.”
About DPE
The Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE) is a coalition of 24 unions representing over four million professional and technical union members. DPE affiliate unions represent professionals in over 300 occupations in education and healthcare; science, engineering, and technology; legal, business, and management; media, entertainment, and the arts; and public administration.