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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING ALAN COBY MILLENDER, SR. AS A LEADER IN UNION AND LABOR ADVOCACY
WHEREAS, Alan Coby Millender, Sr. has dedicated over 36 years of service to the UAW Local 551 and Ford Motor Company, exemplifying transformative leadership, operational excellence, and unwavering commitment to workers’ rights; and
WHEREAS, as a five-time elected Chairman at the Chicago Assembly Plant (CAP), he is the longest-serving Chairman among all Ford assembly plants and the first African American to hold this pivotal leadership position, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of diverse union leaders; and
WHEREAS, his leadership has resulted in historic achievements, including the successful negotiation of a landmark $7.5 million local contract in 2023-the largest in CAP’s history-ensuring fair wages, benefits, and job security for union members; and
WHEREAS, he led the creation of Ford Motor Company's first Wellness and Resource Center at CAP, a vital initiative to promote employee health, well-being, and sustainable careers; and
WHEREAS, his strategic leadership was instrumental in securing and maintaining the Lincoln Aviator production line at CAP from 2019 to the present, securing vital employment and economic stability for the plant’s workforce; and
WHEREAS, Alan’s comprehensive union experience spans multiple roles-from Bargaining Unit Member and Relief Worker to District Committee Person and Alt Committeeperson-providing him with a ground-up understanding of plant operations, membership needs, and collective bargaining; and
WHEREAS, his extensive manufacturing background-serving as a Body Shop Worker, Welder Inspector, Utility Specialist, and Team Leader-gives him invaluable insight into the daily realities of workers, allowing him to advocate with integrity and authenticity; and
WHEREAS, beyond his professional achievements, Alan Coby Millender, Sr. is a proud father and grandfather, and a resilient individual with over 22 years of sobriety, exemplifying strength, resilience, and service both within and outside the union movement; and
WHEREAS, his leadership embodies the power of union solidarity, collective bargaining, and advocacy for fair wages, sustainable careers, and worker empowerment, inspiring others to stand together for economic justice; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board President, Toni Preckwinkle, and the Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby honor and recognize Alan Coby Millender, Sr. for his exemplary leadership, dedication, and groundbreaking contributions to the labor movement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we commend his unwavering commitment to elevating the rights of workers, strengthening union power, and fostering a culture of resilience, upward mobility, and community service.
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