State Budget Update: What We’ve Won &
the Fight Ahead
Check out some highlights of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget!
- join us
Fighting for respect and dignity
For All
SEIU 509 is your union – over 23,000 human service workers and educators across Massachusetts who provide the crucial services that keep our state running. We are united in our mission to raise living standards for working families while improving the quality and accessibility of the services we provide.
Together, we fight for respect and dignity for workers and people everywhere. We win contracts and campaigns that secure higher wages, strong benefits, and protections at work and in our communities.
In the face of rising inequality and attacks on working people, public services, and education, we are building worker power by organizing for a future where everyone has the resources and support they need to thrive.
Our Members
SEIU 509 workers power Commonwealth public service agencies, institutions of higher education, family and child care programs, and group and nursing homes. Find out more about our sectors below!
Public Sector
State workers play a vital role in delivering essential human services to individuals and families across the Commonwealth, ensuring the well-being of our most vulnerable communities.
Private Sector
Local 509 members in Private Sector Human Services (PSHS) deliver critical services across the state, including elder care, direct care support for individuals with developmental disabilities, and mental health programs.
HIgher Education
We are proud to represent thousands of faculty members, graduate workers, and ResLife workers at Bentley University, Boston University, Brandeis University, Lesley University, Northeastern University, and Tufts University.
Family Child Care
Local 509 represents over 3,000 family child care providers who are dedicated to providing early education and care for children across the Commonwealth.
- Latest News
Read Our Latest Member Updates & News
SEIU 509 REACHES AGREEMENT TO PROTECT DMH CASE MANAGER JOBS
After months of difficult negotiations, SEIU 509 members have reached an agreement with the Commonwealth to prevent layoffs for Department ...
Take Action: Protect DTA Services!
With looming federal cuts from the Trump administration and a rising cost of living crisis, the services provided by Department ...
State Budget Update: What We’ve Won and the Fight Ahead
In the face of looming budget cuts to essential services, our members pushed back and did not let the Healey ...
- Upcoming Events
Local 509 Calendar of Events
- political action
stronger together
Make Your Voice Heard!
Local 509 members have the power to elect leaders who will stand up for workers’ rights, defend our healthcare and retirement benefits, and fight for economic and racial justice. We also have the power to uplift candidates and ballot measures that will serve the best interests of the communities we serve and call home.
