Shawn Fain (born October 30, 1968) is an American labor unionist who has served as president of the United Auto Workers (UAW) since March 2023.
[1][2][3][4] The first UAW president directly elected by union members, Fain was a central figure in the 2023 United Auto Workers strike.
In 2023, Fain ran for the presidency of the union against incumbent Ray Curry, leading a slate named UAW Members United that focused on opposing corruption, concessions, and tiered pay structures.
[2][3] Fain's relative labor militancy and bargaining style contributed to the UAW's decision to authorize the 2023 United Auto Workers strike.
[17] Fain is also calling for the end of tiered wages and benefits, and the roll-back of concessions made by the UAW during the 2007–2008 financial crisis, including the reinstatement of cost-of-living adjustments and robust pensions.
[18][19] Fain's hard line stance during contract renegotiations contributed to the union's decision to begin the 2023 United Auto Workers strike on September 15.