Find information on Local 509 Union Elections: candidates, ballot mailing, the election guide, and more!

Fighting for respect and dignity

A diverse group of people in purple SEIU shirts stand outdoors, raising their fists in solidarity and smiling at the camera. Trees and cloudy skies are visible in the background.
A large group of people wearing purple shirts and holding signs gather in a park, raising their fists in solidarity for rent control and fair wages. Trees and green grass are visible in the background.

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, universities, child care programs, and group homes. 

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

Private Sector Human Services and Elder Service workers deliver essential services across the state. This includes direct care support in group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities, support for people struggling with mental health and substance use disorders, and elder care.

HIgher Education

Higher education workers are faculty members, graduate workers, and ResLife workers at private universities throughout the Greater Boston area. They teach, conduct research, and make campus life a safe and supportive environment for students.

Family Child Care

Family child care providers are dedicated to providing early education and care for children across the Commonwealth and advocating for expanded access to child care.

Read Our Latest Member Updates & News

News

Joint Statement from the Protecting Massachusetts Communities Coalition (PMC)

BOSTON — In response to recent proposals by the Black and Latino Caucus and Gov. Healey to protect people in ...

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News

Update on FY27 State Budget

Yesterday, Governor Healey released her proposal of the state budget, which has significant implications for the communities you and your ...

White and yellow horizontal Local 509 logo on purple background
Governance

Quarterly Nominations Notice: January 2026

As a Local 509 member, there are many ways for you to get involved and shape the work your union ...

Local 509 Calendar of Events

  • COPE Meeting

    COPE Meeting
    Virtual

    For questions, please contact COPE Representative Orlando Peña at opena@seiu509.org or register here for the Zoom link.

  • FCC Chapter Board Meeting

    For more information, please email Family Child Care President Celina Reyes: fcc@seiu509.org

stronger together

Sandra Peret Headshot

Sandra Peret for City Collector

Office/district:

Chicopee
Jeovanny Rodriguez Headshot

Jeovanny Rodriguez for City Council At Large

Office/district:

Lawrence
Franklin Miguel Headshot

Franklin Miguel for City Council District A 

Office/district:

Lawrence
Vivian Marmol Headshot

Vivian Marmol for City Council District D

Office/district:

Lawrence
A large group of people gathers in front of the Massachusetts State House, holding SEIU banners and wearing purple shirts.

Political Action!

Our political work is both electoral and legislative. We work to elect leaders who stand up for workers’ rights, defend our healthcare and retirement benefits, and fight for economic and racial justice. We advocate for ballot measures and policies that benefit everyday working people and contribute to the common good.

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