Douglas Andrew Fraser (1916–2008) was a prominent Scottish-American labor leader and academic who dedicated his career to the advancement of workers' rights and industrial relations. Serving as the president of the United Auto Workers (UAW) from 1977 to 1983, Fraser became a central figure in American labor history during a period of significant economic transition and challenge for the automotive industry.
Fraser is best remembered for his pivotal role in saving the Chrysler Corporation from bankruptcy in 1979. Recognizing the devastating impact a collapse would have on workers, he heavily lobbied the United States Congress to secure a crucial federal loan. Simultaneously, he demonstrated pragmatic leadership by convincing union members to make difficult concessions, a dual strategy that ultimately preserved the company and saved thousands of jobs.
Following his active leadership in the UAW, Fraser transitioned into academia, sharing his extensive practical knowledge as an adjunct professor of labor relations at Wayne State University for many years. His enduring contributions to the labor movement and his humanitarian efforts were honored in 2006 when he was awarded the prestigious Walter P. Reuther Humanitarian Award by Wayne State University.
