Groundbreaking Moment for Labor Movement
In a groundbreaking moment for the labor movement, April Verrett was elected president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), becoming the first Black woman to lead the second-largest union in America with nearly 2 million members. Her historic election shatters glass ceilings, marking a seismic shift in the labor landscape.
“I am thankful that hardworking SEIU members have trusted me to lead this union as we unleash a new era of worker power,” Verrett said after her election. “By joining together, organizing, and — in many cases — striking, working people are taking power back from corporate interests and using that power to lift up their families and communities.”
Decades of Advocacy and Organizing Experience
Verrett brings decades of advocacy and organizing experience to her new role. The Chicago native and granddaughter of an SEIU union steward has served in labor organizing for over 20 years. She previously chaired the SEIU National Home Care Council and co-chaired the union’s National Organizing Committee.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Verrett emerged as a leading voice for healthcare workers, advocating for their safety and rights as frontline workers battled the deadly virus under harrowing conditions.
She testified before Congress in 2020 about these conditions and met with President Joe Biden in 2023 to address successes fostered by the American Rescue Plan.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
“Make no mistake — working people are under attack and the stakes have never been higher; but the real challenge and opportunity of leading our union in this moment is meeting the momentum of workers across the country — especially the young people of color — who are showing us what’s possible,” Verrett stated.
Verrett’s election comes amid a tenuous period in labor relations nationwide, with low wages, lack of concern for worker well-being, and rollbacks of labor laws in some states. However, she remains optimistic, citing the SEIU’s commitment to diversity as a strong factor in combating corporate greed and legal setbacks.
Passing the Torch to a New Generation
Outgoing president Mary Kay Henry, who served two terms, expressed pride and optimism in passing the torch to Verrett. “Her vision, determination, and fearlessness will propel us to the future working people deserve,” Henry said.
The Aspen Institute’s Economic Opportunities Program, which seeks to advance strategies for low- and moderate-income people, congratulated Verrett, stating, “We cannot imagine a leader who is better suited to partner with us in this endeavor.”
As the SEIU enters a new era, Verrett is energized and honored to take on the challenge, believing that together, they can “end poverty wages once and for all.”
