The Kenosha AFL-CIO Council announced their selection of Rick Phillips as this year’s Labor Person of the Year. President Rick Gallo made the announcement following the unanimous approval by the delegates to the Council at their last meeting.
“I am very proud to announce the selection of Rick Phillips to be our Labor Person of the Year for 2025. He exemplifies the characteristics we appreciate and look up to as a deserving recipient.” Gallo stated.
About the 2025 Labor Person of the Year
Rick Phillips began his career with American Motors Corporation in 1973. He was soon elected as a steward for UAW 72 members in the metal/body ship at the lakefront plant. Rick later became a chief steward and was also appointed as a UAW Benefits Representative. He then moved on to serve on the UAW Local 72 Executive Board. During 1989-90, he was a case worker with the Dislocated Worker Program (JPTA and TRA Funds).
When the Kenosha plant was shut down, he transferred to the Chrysler Chicago Parts Depot, where he was elected Shop Committeeeman, and again appointed as a Benefits Rep. He retired in 2002 and became a Labor Representative with Blue Cross/Blue Shield for several years.
Rick currently serves the active membership of Local 72 as the Financial Secretary, and serves the retiree membership as the Local 72 Retiree Chapter Vice President. Moreover, he is currently a delegate to the UAW Southeastern Wisconsin Area CAP Council.
Phillips has been married to his wife, Twyla, for 50 years. They have four children and five grandchildren.
He comes from a strong union upbringing. Both of his parents were proud union members – his father a UAW member, and his mother a UFCW member.
The Kenosha AFL-CIO Council views Phillips’ union service as inspirational. He exemplifies the important contribution individuals can make to today’s labor movement. We are delighted to recognize him as our Labor Person of the Year.
About AFL-CIO Labor Fest
In Kenosha, the annual Labor Day celebration known as “Laborfest” will be held at the Pennoyer Park Bandshell on Monday, September 1st. This year, we are welcoming our brothers and sisters from Racine to join us, rather than having separate events. The fest will feature children’s activities, music, food, and of course, fellowship. This event is open to the public and begins at 11:00 a.m. and runs to 5:00 p.m. This event is put on by The Kenosha AFL-CIO Council, with major sponsorship from the City of Kenosha and UAW Local 72. Other local unions also contribute financially, as well.
Music this year will be provided by Betsy Ade and the Well-Known Strangers. Children’s activities will include two bounce houses, children’s story time, face-painting (KEA), projects (Carpenters Union), glitter tattoos, and a KPD Police Dog demonstration. Non-perishable food items will be collected for the Shalom Center, with hourly raffle prizes for anyone bringing food items.
A very short program will be held at 12:30 p.m. on the main stage, where this year’s recipient of the Labor Person of the Year will be recognized.
