United Auto Workers Vice President General Holiefield announced Nov. 6 that he would not seek re-election and would officially retire at UAW’s 36th Constitutional Convention in Detroit next June. Holiefield is serving his second term as UAW vice president, and he directs the union’s Chrysler, Heavy Truck and Engine, and General Dynamics departments.
“I leave with very cherished memories of more than 40 years as a member and leader of this great union,” said Holiefield. “My goal has always been to lift people out of poverty and to give them a better standard of living, and that goal has been reflected in my work with the UAW, an institution that reflects the same goal. I have enjoyed my time with the members, my co-workers and staff, Bob King and others on the union’s International Executive Board. I will always be a part of this union. I will always leave the light on.”
According to UAW President Bob King: “Without General’s leadership, there wouldn’t be a Chrysler today. During the nation’s great economic crisis and its horrendous effect on the auto industry, General Holiefield demonstrated the leadership that helped guide Chrysler back to profitability and on to the great success it has achieved in the marketplace. The jobs of UAW members working at Chrysler are more secure today because of General.”
Holiefield also serves as a board member on the AFL-CIO Executive Council and on the national board of directors for the NAACP. He said he looks forward to the ability to spend more time with his grandchildren, upon retirement.
