MOTION TO APOPT PRINCIPLES OF HEALTHCARE AND MEMBER EDUCATION AS UNION POLICY

MOTION TO APOPT PRINCIPLES OF HEALTHCARE AND MEMBER EDUCATION AS UNION POLICY [The Universal Healthcare Committee Chair or Designated Representative] moves that the SEIU Local 503, OPEU, Board of Directors adopt as Union policy:retiree It is the policy of SEIU Local 503, OPEU, that health care is a human right. Therefore, it is the policy […]

SEIU 503  Universal Healthcare Special Committee Report

SEIU 503  Universal Healthcare Special Committee Working Paper for Board of Directors (Revised) Recommendation: We recommend that the SEIU 503 Board of Directors support the efforts to make Oregon the first state to have a universal healthcare system, and support health care as a fundamental human right. Background: Many of our union members have healthcare […]

Dignity e-newsletter: November 22, 2023

(Select your preferred language at the top of this page.) Articles: SEIU 503 In-Home Care Providers Vote to Ratify New Contract!  Sublocal Elections Happening Soon  Carewell Open Enrollment  Provider Holiday Pay – What to Know  Holidays Can Be Hard: Resources for Emotional and Mental Health  SEIU 503 In-Home Care Providers Vote to Ratify New Contract!  […]

Provider Holiday Pay – What to Know 

Holiday pay for providers was negotiated during the 2021-2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement between SEIU 503 and the State. THAT’S the power of workers standing together in UNION!  If you work on Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day, you will be paid your normal pay rate at time-and-a-half for the first eight hours you work. Time worked […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update – November 17, 2023

Yesterday we participated in a special Zoom bargaining session at management’s request so they could deliver their most recent bargaining proposals. Spoiler alert: we are still miles apart on key elements of our contract. In a powerful statement, hundreds of classified staff joined the bargaining session as observers. Their presence helped remind management that classified […]

PPS Bargaining Update 11/17/23

The District that Stole Christmas PPS has done everything they can to delay settling a fair contract. They didn’t make a single proposal until the middle of June, and now they are delaying mediation until January 18th. After pressure from our bargaining department PPS agreed to schedule bargaining dates in November and December without a […]

Addus Bargaining Update, November 7, 2023

We met with Addus management again on Tuesday, November 7. While it was a productive session Addus failed to provide us with an economic counter proposal. We wish we could give you more news about where we are on wages but the ball is in managements court at this point and we are just waiting […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update – November 9, 2023

Tuesday’s rally at OSU was a big success!  We concluded our latest bargaining session with management at Oregon State University yesterday, and there hasn’t been much movement at the table. Your SEIU 503 bargaining team is standing strong for the priorities we outlined in our bargaining petition: respect, raises that keep up with inflation, safe […]

SEIU 503 Veterans Day Statement 2023

As we observe Veterans Day, the SEIU 503 Veterans Caucus wishes to recognize everyone who served, with a focus on Women Vets in Oregon, one of our own union homecare members Alice Redding (soon to be an SEIU 503 Retiree, former Marine), our American Legion Pioneer Post 149 (First All-women Post in Oregon, located in […]

PPS Bargaining Update 11/8/23

Upcoming Meetings & Strike Pledge The past week has been an incredible show of solidarity for the safe, sustainable and equitable working and learning conditions we all deserve. Together we can build on this momentum to win a fair contract by signing our Strike Pledge (if you haven’t already) and by staying up to date by bookmarking the SEIU […]

Historic: LPNs win their first contract in Oregon!

After months of bargaining, Avamere Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) won their first contract! This is the first group of LPNs EVER to win a union contract in Oregon’s nursing home industry. Nursing home leaders achieved a goal that nursing home union members have fought for for years; an actual career ladder at Avamere from an […]

Workday Issue Updates: Workers should be paid correctly every time

The Issue: In December 2022, the State transitioned to a new payroll system, Workday, and immediately State workers began to experience errors in paychecks such as underpayments, overpayments and subsequent recoupments, and other issues. Though payment errors have always occurred periodically for workers, the scope of this Workday problem is unprecedented and has had a […]

PPS Training for Safe & Respectful Schools

Our union coalition petitioned PPS to provide meaningful in-person sexual harassment prevention trainings and an independent audit of how complaints are handled to ensure that PPS is a safe, positive, and equitable place to learn and work. The training tomorrow (Friday) is a first step, and an opportunity to connect with each other and show […]

Homecare Workers have won wage increases and a pay scale! Here's how it works!

Click on the image below to learn more about increased wages and a new payscale, as proposed in our tentative contract agreeement (TA). CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO PLAY VIDEO: SEIU503 Homecare Workers have won wage increases and a pay scale! Here’s how it works!  For more information about details of the tentative agreement, go […]

Statement on Native American History Month by the Indigenous Peoples' Caucus

Klahowya – Greetings from the Indigenous Peoples Caucus! As you are probably aware, November is Native American Heritage Month here in the United States. A time we often use to connect and celebrate our various cultures and appreciate that we are still here. We have many native people here in Oregon who are from tribes […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update - October 30, 2023

We wrapped up our second bargaining session at the University of Oregon on Friday, and it is clear that we will have to fight hard to win the contract we deserve. While our union is making proposals that would improve classified workers’ standard of living and workplace protections, management is doing the opposite. And it’s […]

In Memory of SEIU Member Activist James Jacobson: A Message from Union President Mike Powers

Our Union family has lost a selfless and courageous champion of labor and equality with the passing of James Jacobson. In a world that today seems so violent, revengeful, hurtful…James provided that consistent strength of a positive approach to his hard work in making sure SEIU Local 503 members had a strong voice in our […]

PPS Bargaining Update 10/31/23

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PPS Union Unity Pass

As you may have heard, PPS Teachers are going on strike tomorrow. For this, we have created a pass for you to show as you walk across the picket line to work, while still showing your solidarity. Here’s your link to download your SEIU Union Unity Pass, also viewable below. We also encourage you to purple up […]

Beaverton Bargaining Team Election: Candidate Statements

Spencer Rawlings: Hello, my name is Spencer Rawlings, I’ve been with the Finance dept/Utility Billing for nearly 3 years and I would like to represent us in bargaining for our next contract. I want to fight for a fair and equitable contract that recognizes how important we are to the city and the services we […]

Dignity e-newsletter: October 27, 2023

What’s in this issue:  Paper Ballots Going Out October 30 Avoid the Waitlist: Childcare for Workers  Having Trouble Reaching Your Caseworker?  Become a Union Steward!  Homecare Contract Ratification Vote: Mail-in Ballots Go Out Oct. 30 Ratification for the new tentative agreement is happening now! While electronic voting has now closed and thousands of in-home care providers […]

PPS Bargaining Update 10/23/23

Time for PPS to settle a fair contract! After 8 months of dragging their feet, PPS says they want to reach an agreement on a new contract this week. Show your support for living wages and safe and respectful working conditions by signing the PPS STRIKE PLEDGE and wearing purple this Wednesday and come to bargaining if […]

PPS Bargaining Update 10/18/23

Bargaining Update: October 18 Hello Everyone, Thanks to the recent actions that workers have taken, we’re keeping the momentum up at the bargaining table, and would like to share our wage proposal with you today. Portland is one of the most expensive cities in America, and has an extreme housing shortage, and because of that, […]

SEIU Statement on Terrorist Attack on Israel and Crisis in Gaza

Issued October 17, 2023 WASHINGTON, DC – Service Employees International Union (SEIU) President Mary Kay Henry issued the following statement today in response to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza: “SEIU believes that all Israelis and Palestinians deserve safety, freedom from violence, and the opportunity to thrive. Our union includes many who have family […]

On the Picket Lines with Our Union Siblings at SEIU 49

It’s #SolidaritySeason and union members are on the picket lines across the country! SEIU Local 503 members and staff joined our union siblings from SEIU Local 49 as Kaiser Permanente workers went on strike October 4 – 6 at sites in metro Portland and Salem. The strike was part of a multi-state action of 75,000 […]

Arete Contract

Collective bargaining is the process in which working people, through their union, negotiate contracts with their employer to determine their terms of employment. This can include pay, benefits, hours, leave, health and safety policies, and more. Collective bargaining can also be a way to solve worksite issues. Through collective bargaining, working people in unions have […]

Rally Recap & Strike Pledge Announcement

Yesterday, hundreds of PPS workers from every union rallied together to make their voices heard and demand a fair contract. We have the districts’ attention because of yesterday’s action, and now is the time to build on that and demonstrate our determination and unity in order to move the PPS’ bargaining team on our priorities. That is why today, we […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update - October 9th, 2023

Our first bargaining session took place last Thursday and Friday, setting the foundation for a tough fight with administration. We exchanged lists with management of different parts of our contract we’ve chosen to renegotiate, including salary, and agreed to meet again at the University of Oregon on October 26th and 27th. Our proposals include adding Indigenous Peoples’ […]

PPS All-Union Rally: October 10th!

Join PPS workers from every union on Tuesday, October 10th at 5pm as we rally outside of PPS headquarters (501 N Dixon St. Portland, OR) before the school board meeting. This rally is an essential step to showing PPS that we are all united in our fight for a strong contract! RSVP today.  

Calculate your new raise!

Because union members came together and took action in our worksites, at the capitol, and in our communities, we were able to reach a tentative agreement that included a raise of $1.73 for all workers in January 2024, a pay scale which will ensure regular wage increases based on the amount of hours you work, […]

Big raises for SEIU Nursing Home workers October 1

On October 1, workers at Volare, EmpRes, Prestige, and Sapphire nursing homes will see Cost of Living Adjustments in their paychecks. Our union bargaining team negotiated these COLAs in our last union contract, based on increases in Medicaid reimbursement rates. Under pressure from union workers’ action and solidarity, the nursing homes agreed to pass on […]

Homecare/PSW Full TA Summary

Click the image below to read the full Homecare/PSW tentative agreement summary:

Sublocal 392 Oregon State Hospital Constitution & Bylaws Amendment Vote

Sublocal 392 proposes to amend its Constitution and Bylaws to be replaced by the proposed Bylaws. Many sublocals do not have a Constitution which is unnecessary and having only Bylaws will eliminate the possibility of any conflicting provisions in the two documents. The Sublocal 392 Executive Committee submitted proposed changes which were reviewed and approved […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update - September 20th, 2023

Your SEIU 503 Higher Ed Bargaining Team met in Portland last week to prepare for contract negotiations with the universities. Bargaining formally begins on October 5 and 6 at OIT in Klamath Falls. There’s much work to do before then. Here’s what we’re up to.  We are working on proposing changes to as many as seven […]

SEIU 503 Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month 2023

The following statement is from SEIU 503’s Latinx Caucus: El mes de la herencia Latinx se celebra anualmente desde el día 15 de septiembre al día 15 de octubre. Es un mes para dar reconocer el espíritu inquebrantable y honrar las historias, las culturas y contribuciones que se han aportado.  A lo largo de nuestra […]

Homecare and Personal Support Workers Win a Historic Contract!  

  Homecare and Personal Support Workers Win a Historic Contract!   READ THE FULL TENTATIVE AGREEMENT SUMMARY HERE. Over the coming days and weeks, you will receive additional information about this contract, how it impacts you and your consumer, and also how to vote to approve our new contract. We want to give a shout out […]

PPS Media Updates

Thanks for following along in SEIU Local 503’s PPS Bargaining campaign. Below you will find images and videos of PPS workers, as well as up to date information on where we are in bargaining. Media Contact: Arianna Avena at 503-583-7160 and at avenaa@seiu503.org  

PPS Bargaining Update: September 6, 2023

On Friday, September 1st, we held our 9th bargaining session. PPS rejected all four of the Union’s proposals related to safety, nondiscrimination, the grievance procedure and personnel files. Management continues to push back against any meaningful improvements to our contract, such as rejecting the Union’s proposals to include antidiscrimination, antiracism and antiharassment protections. We were […]

Avamere LPN Bargaining Update 8/28/2023

Our SEIU union bargaining team continues to push for One contract (LPNs to receive all rights and benefits under the existing collective bargaining agreement) Wage add-ons for LPN duties beyond nursing (on-call, infection control, RCM) LPNs to be placed on a wage scale based on experience. We are in agreement with management on updating Safety […]

The Votes Have Been Counted!

We’re excited to announce that State members have voted to ratify the 2023-2025 State Worker Tentative Agreement. This contract is historic, with a minimum 13.05% raise over two years, and $1,500 one-time cost of living adjustment (COLA). Additionally, this contract also garnered the highest voter participation on record and passed with more than 91% voting […]

Tentative Agreement at Arete!

Wage Increases The average Arete worker will see an 18% increase over the life of the contract. On 1/1/2023, 1/1/2024, and 1/1/2025, all workers will get a 3% COLA plus one step up the wage scale, equal to an additional 3%. Any employee who is paid above the wage scale will receive a 4% wage […]

Sheri S., Hillsboro

We’ve worked so hard during bargaining to win big things like health insurance, wage increases, an attendance bonus, and more! This new contract is a product of the collective action and unity we showed as coworkers in this process. We need a majority vote to ratify, so please plan ahead to cast your vote on […]

Sandra L, Seaside

Everybody needs to vote for the contract for better health care, better wages, and our bonus

It’s Here: Late Pay Complaint Form is Online!  

Over the past few years, care providers have experienced more than 17,000 incidents of partial pay or late pay, which often took weeks or months to resolve, as there was no clear method to file an incident report at the time. In a grievance settlement from 2022, OHCC agreed to streamline the process faster by creating […]

Caucus MLDP Recruitment Underway!

Applications are now being accepted for SEIU 503’s Caucus Member Leadership Development Program (MLDP). Over the course of four weeks, the Caucus MLDP participant will help build our union by organizing caucus membership and identifying issues relevant to our members. The Caucus MLDP participant will receive classroom training with a group of MLDPs working on […]

Notice of Nomination and Elections: 2023 CAPE Council

Citizen Action for Political Education (CAPE) contributors will be electing our leaders for the next two years this fall. You must be a CAPE contributor as of July 31, 2023 in order to nominate yourself or someone else, be nominated, or vote in this election. For more CAPE information, including CAPE Council duties and district […]

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Allyse's thoughts on the Tentative Agreement

State members are in the middle of ratifying one of the most historic contracts our union has ever seen. With COLAs of over 13% over two years, a one-time $1,500 bonus, and much more, this contract can change the lives of thousands of State workers. The votes are coming in, and many members are excited […]

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State Bargaining News

Not getting our emails? Resubscribe today!

Not receiving our emails? You may be unsubscribed. E-ballots were emailed to all State members on July 25th. If you haven’t received the email, or if you believe you are missing other union communications, complete the form below.  

How We Arrived at Our Strong Tentative Agreement for State Workers

By Central Table Bargaining Co-Chairs Ibrahim Coulibaly and Austin Folnagy  We’d like to share with our fellow members our experience as bargaining team members after reaching a Tentative Agreement (TA) for the next state worker contract. We must begin by thanking all of you for being members. The higher our membership, the stronger our bargaining […]

How Much Will Your Raise Be with the State TA?

Want to know what your pay will look like after the new State worker contract is ratified? Estimate how much your income will increase with this calculator.

What Will Your Raise Be with the New State TA?

Want to know what your pay will look like after the new State worker contract is ratified? Estimate how much your income will increase with this calculator.

The State TA is a Pay Raise for State Workers

Want to know what your pay will look like after the new State worker contract is ratified? Estimate how much your income will increase with this calculator.

Membership Advantages

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Because union members came together and took action in our worksites, at the capitol, and in our communities, we were able to reach a tentative agreement that included a raise of $1.73 for all workers in January 2024, a pay scale which will ensure regular wage increases based on the amount of hours you work, […]

Homecare Bargaining Speak-Outs coming to a city near you!

At the Drive to $25 Speak Outs, we will harness the power of our collective voice.    Our stories are our most potent tool in this fight. We will share our experiences, reveal the truth about our profession, and demand the fair treatment and respect we deserve. Come share your experiences with pay inequity — juggling multiple […]

2023 State Pay Calculator

Because union members came together and took action in our worksites, at the capitol, and in our communities, we were able to reach a tentative agreement that included historically high COLAs, protected our health insurance, and made our worksites safer and more accommodating. Click here for more information on your 2023 contract. Not a member? […]

Contract Bargaining 101: Here's how it works!

Are you new to bargaining or do you need a refresher on how bargaining works? We’ve got you covered – just take a drive along the Bargaining Roadmap starting at the bottom of this graphic. Stay up to date and catch up on bargaining news you may have missed by visiting our SEIU Homecare Bargaining web page. […]

Arete Bargaining Update July 10 2023

On June 28th, SEIU’s bargaining team presented all of the Union’s proposals to Arete. (See below for summary) Our SEIU Nursing Home Union bargaining team took a firm stand against retaliatory anti-union behavior by management in several facilities. Sarah Sutherland apologized on behalf of Arete and said she would investigate this matter.  Our next bargaining session […]

The Central Table Bargaining Team has reached a Tentative Agreement!

This victory was hard won by the bargaining team and all of us who took action during this campaign by purpling up, coming to rallies and informational pickets, sending emails to decision-makers, and signing strike pledges. Our union actions made a difference in the bargaining team’s efforts to come to agreement on a settlement that […]

2023 Legislative Session Summary

Oregon’s 2023 legislative session has ended, and through the advocacy of our members managed to pass the majority of our priority bills. We secured bargaining pots for state employees and homecare/personal support workers that places our members in a position to bargain for historic contracts. Our coalition work helped secure major wins in housing, climate justice, […]

Comparison of Monthly Pay to Biweekly Pay

This chart shows how monthly pay compares to every-other-week pay over the course of one year. An OS2 who brings home $3335 in one paycheck per month is paid $1539 every two weeks.

Juneteenth Let Freedom Ring

In the 21st century, Congress passed The Juneteenth National Independence Day Act in June 2021, a day after the Senate passed the bill with unanimous consent. Our current President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on June 17 – just two days before Juneteenth three years ago. Every year on June 19th our nation […]

Action

In 2023 State Bargaining, we’re fighting for economic justice, safe & equitable workplaces, sustainable workloads, and a strong union. Now is the time to make your voice heard and complete the actions listed below. 1. Email the Governor: Governor Tina Kotek has the power to settle a contract that has what State workers need most; […]

Holiday Pay...brought to you by your Union!

In our current contract, our member-elected SEIU 503 Homecare Bargaining team fought for, and won, Holiday Pay for Homecare and Personal Support workers. Now, if you work on July 4, Thanksgiving or Christmas you will be paid time and a half for the first 8 hours you work. THAT’S the power of workers standing together […]

SEIU 503 Pride Month 2023 Statement

Every June, SEIU 503 members celebrate Pride Month. It’s a time for us all to recognize and celebrate the LGBTQIAS2S+ community’s contributions to our union, the labor movement, our great state, and the world.    There is no question that attacks on the LGBTQIA2S+ community are getting worse – we see it in state legislatures, […]

Details for the June 8th Rally

June 8 Rally Event Details & Instructions We’re looking forward to seeing you this Thursday, June 8 for the State worker rally! This message contains important event information about parking, bus transportation, an event map, on-site registration, lunch, and lodging. Please read all of the details below. Event: June 8 State Worker Rally Date: Thursday, […]

What SEIU 503 Members Need to Know About the Senate Walkout

The Oregon Legislature plays a key role in SEIU 503 contracts and working conditions. Funding for bargaining and state agencies that employ 90% of our members comes from the state budget passed every two years. This is a budget year and a bargaining year, so there is a lot on the line for our next […]

White Paper: Low Pay Causing State’s Recruitment and Retention Problems

High Rates of Turnover Also Dramatically Affecting Delivery of Services The State of Oregon’s workforce crisis has reached a critical point, with the state’s inability to recruit and retain workers creating serious vacancies throughout state government, dramatically affecting the quality of public services Oregonians expect and deserve, according to a research document published by SEIU […]

Homecare and Personal Support Contract Bargaining

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2023

To our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander siblings in our Union Family LET US JOIN TOGETHER UNITED IN SOLIDARITY with each other as we celebrate and pay tribute to generations before us in celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Let us share, uplift voices and support each other with our history, […]

Local Officer List

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Central Table Bargaining Update April 28

Central Table Bargaining Update In the last two weeks, we have had two meetings with management. While there have been moments of productive work, such as the presentations on selective salary increases this week, overall we are disappointed with the pace of negotiations and the fact that it is taking a long time to get […]

Central Table Bargaining Update April 14

State Employees will Rally at the Capitol on June 8th! Join us at the Oregon Capitol to rally on June 8th to fight for real wage increases, workplace safety, manageable workloads, and to end the State workforce crisis! Over 10,000 of us signed the petition, now it’s time to show up in person to send […]

State Worker Crisis Deserves Attention

With workforce stress mounting for public employees, legislators and managers need to take immediate action by filling vacancies and increasing pay  By Mike Powers, President, and Melissa Unger, Executive Director, of SEIU 503   It’s often mind-boggling which issues get the most attention and which get ignored. Over the past few weeks, a bill in […]

Ways & Means Roadshow

The legislature is hosting five opportunities through the Ways and Means Roadshow series throughout the month of April to share our experiences and stories about how inflation and increased workloads affect you to paint a picture to policymakers why we need a great contract this campaign. RSVP to share your story at one of the […]

State Budget Update

  Last week, the Co-Chairs of the Legislative Ways & Means Committee (the budget committee) released their budget framework, which lays out their spending and budget priorities for the next two-year budget cycle. The Co-Chairs support most, but not all, of the Governor’s Recommendations from her budget that was released in February. Their framework invests […]

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State Bargaining

Central Table Bargaining Update March 17

As we shared on Thursday, we had a big day at the bargaining table this week. Management finally presented us with their opening economic offer: a 4.4% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in December of this year and a 2.3% COLA in December 2024. They also proposed moving to a biweekly pay schedule. They have not given […]

Thank You For Joining Us! - 2023 Bargaining Petition

Thank You For Signing! Other Ways to Get Involved: Stay up to date by joining our SEIU Local 503 State Employee Facebook group! Join our Contract Action Team (CAT) and help keep other members involved and inn-the-know on all things bargaining! Download a virtual meeting background! Version 1, Version 1 (QR code), Version 2, Version 2 (QR code) Use the SEIU Digital […]

Central Table Bargaining Update March 3

On February 22 and March 1, our SEIU 503 central table bargaining team met with management to continue making our initial proposals to the state. In these sessions, we gave management the rest of our proposals for economic justice. With so many state workers continuing to receive incorrect paychecks due to the Workday debacle, our […]

Sign the Homecare Petition

State Coalition Updates

May 26 ODOT Coalition   The ODOT Coalition bargaining team met with management for two sessions this week. On both nights, our bargaining delegates kept management at the table past 10 pm, for a total of 15 hours of bargaining. We spent this time analyzing management’s proposals, crafting counter proposals, and working hard to defend and […]

CAPE Reimbursement Forms

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Expense Form Instructions

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General Fund Reimbursement Forms

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Local / Caucus Reimbursement Forms

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Member Direct Deposit Enrollment Forms

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SEIU 503 Members Celebrate Women’s History Month 2023

By: Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers  As we begin Women’s History Month 2023, we are at a moment where women continue to make gains but there have also been major setbacks to women’s rights. Today you are more likely to see a woman as CEO or in a board room than ever […]

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State Bargaining Updates 2023

Central Table Bargaining Update April 28 Central Table Bargaining Update In the last two weeks, we have had two meetings with management. While there have been… Continue reading » Central Table Bargaining Update April 14 State Employees will Rally at the Capitol on June 8th! Join us at the Oregon Capitol to rally on June… […]

Share your staffing story

Please record a 30-second video in support of the proposed staffing standards for nursing homes. Nursing home owners are pushing back and claiming that these staffing standards are not necessary. Your story can help make the difference. You have 30 seconds to record your story. Please use the following format: 1. Say your name and […]

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Higher Ed

Current Proposals   Union position  Management position  Cost-Of-Living Adjustments (COLA)  12% retroactive to 7/1/23 +   9% effective 7/1/24   7% effective 7/1/25     3.75% after ratification   3.25% effective 1/1/25  1% effective 1/1/26  Overtime  Maintain current overtime rules  Withdraw proposal to eliminate exchange time and daily overtime  Limit use of seniority in determining overtime distribution  Contracting Out  […]

Homecare and Personal Support Bargaining 2023

SEIU 503 In-Home Care Providers Vote to Ratify New Contract! Members have voted, ballots have been counted, and we’re thrilled to share that our new contract was ratified. The contract contains some big victories for Homecare and Personal Support workers! Read all about it here! WATCH THE VIDEO! SEIU503 Homecare Workers have won wage increases […]

Central Table Bargaining Update February 10, 2023

On Wednesday, February 8th, our SEIU 503 central table bargaining team met with the state to deliver an opening statement and pass our initial economic proposals. (Most coalition bargaining delegates were also able to attend virtually as observers.) In our statement, led by our central table co-chairs Ibrahim Coulibaly and Austin Folnagy, and 503’s executive […]

State Bargaining

We are over 22,000 State workers, joined together in union to make Oregon a better place to live and work. We are DHS workers who provide direct services to over one million Oregonians each year, ODOT workers who put in the long hours to ensure safe roads and infrastructure, Parks workers who keep our state […]

Black History Month Statement 2023

PPS Newsletters

November 14, 2023 November 8, 2023 November 1, 2023 October 23, 2023 October 17, 2023 October 9, 2023 September 19, 2023 September 1, 2023 August 25, 2023 August 19, 2023 August 13, 2023 August 5, 2023 July 23, 2023 July 14, 2023 July 6, 2023 June 30, 2023 June 16, 2023 June 8, 2023 June […]

Black History Month Statement 2023

SEIU 503 is proud to again celebrate Black History Month. Each year, we make time to recognize the contributions, beauty, and resilience of our Black and African American members. Tragically, we must also continue to acknowledge the brutal oppression and challenges these communities face. Two years removed from the murder of George Floyd, we’re in […]

Elections Matter: Governor Kotek Taking Immediate Action on Housing

After emerging from our comprehensive endorsement process, SEIU members helped elect Governor Tina Kotek because she had a proven track record of solving problems and standing by us. We donated small dollars pooled together that grew into large donations to fight back against billionaires and corporate interests. In the final 10 days of the General […]

Bargaining Community Space

The SEIU 503 Bargaining Community Space is available for download as a mobile app, or you can access it in a web browser from any device. Mobile app download Google Play Store Apple App Store Browser (any device) State workers Homecare workers

Central Table Bargaining Update January 27, 2023

On February 8, our  SEIU Central Table Bargaining Team will meet with the state for the first full negotiation session. At this meeting, our negotiating team will deliver the demands that union members have for our new contract: economic justice, safe and equitable workplaces, sustainable workloads, and equity in remote work. Our Coalition bargaining teams will begin meeting with the state in mid-February. To win, we […]

Digital Toolkit

There are so many ways to show your union pride and spread the word! Below you will find several digital tools to use on social media and Zoom to virtually “purple up.” Follow us, and when you post Union-related content, be sure to tag us and/or use the hashtag #seiu503 Instagram: @seiu503 TikTok: @seiulocal503 Facebook: […]

State Bargaining Updates

March 3 On February 22 and March 1, our SEIU 503 Central Table Bargaining Team met with management to continue making our initial proposals to the state.In these sessions, we gave management the rest of our proposals for economic justice. With so many state workers continuing to receive incorrect paychecks due to the Workday debacle, […]

Update on State Pay Issues (Workday)

August 25 In May and June, we shared updates with you about working with the State on issues related to tax withholding for mid-month paychecks. You will recall, the State confirmed in May that they had not been correctly withholding taxes for workers that received a mid-month check, which is how overtime is paid-out for […]

Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2023

Today, we want you to celebrate with us the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We, AFRAM, want you to do more than that. We want you to question yourselves and be honest about your answers. We desire all to educate themselves on this portion of African American History. There are many books […]

Homecare Bargaining Update, August 15, 2023

Our Homecare/PSW bargaining team met with State management for a marathon 11-hour bargaining session on Tuesday, August 15.  The State’s most recent proposal put forward an offer of a $.65 pay increase for the first cost of living adjustment, which our team resoundingly rejected. We responded with a counter proposal of a $3-$5 increase over the […]

Central Table Bargaining Update January 13, 2023

Our Central Table Bargaining Team will meet with the State to exchange proposals early next month. Right now, our bargaining teams are in the process of reviewing the results of more than 7,000 surveys, which made our priorities for the 2023 bargaining session clear. These include: Strong wage increases Sustainable workloads Workplace safety Remote work equity […]

Homecare Bargaining Update, July 25, 2023

Homecare Bargaining Update, July 25 Session  Contract bargaining is heating up! Our Homecare/PSW Bargaining Team is now meeting with state management each week as we get closer to winning a new contract. Here’s what happened at this week’s session:  Hours: Previously we reported that Management was beginning to make movement on hours, proposing a cap […]

Homecare Bargaining Update, July 18th

We are now meeting with management each week as we work on getting closer to winning a new contract. We convened for a virtual session this week, engaging in a back-and-forth discussion at the table for more than ten hours. We are making headway; state management continue to make movement and we won tentative agreements […]

Homecare Bargaining Update, July 11th

State Makes Some Movement on Language Justice, Hours Cap We resumed meeting with State Management this week and were cautiously optimistic that they are finally starting to listen to our demands, thanks to you sending emails, attending our Speak Outs and sending a message loud and clear that homecare workers deserve better!   The biggest […]

May 2, 2023 Homecare Bargaining Update

Bargaining Update We want to welcome longtime SEIU 503 member Alice Redding to the 2023 Homecare Bargaining Team! Alice was previously an alternate and is now serving in an official capacity. SEIU 503 Homecare Bargaining team members had a productive session with state management this week, with the state submitting counters to our proposals and the […]

April 18, 2023 Homecare Bargaining Update

Bargaining Update We read management our remaining proposals in time for this week’s deadline and tentatively agreed on our first proposal, Article 22, regarding the Joint Labor Management Committee. We do expect management will offer counters at our next bargaining session, which is scheduled for Tuesday, May 2nd in Salem. Our team also honored longtime SEIU […]

April 4, 2023 Homecare Bargaining Update

Bargaining Update Our member-elected Homecare/PSW Bargaining Team resumed meeting with state management this week. Our team presented to the State a package proposal reflecting some of our members top priorities, including increasing the number of paid holidays and providing incentive improvements to respite care and eliminating the cap on weekly hours. Additionally, we proposed incentives […]

March 21, 2023 Homecare Bargaining Update

Bargaining Update SEIU 503 Homecare Bargaining co-chairs Patty Falkenstein and Cristal DeJarnac and executive director Melissa Unger presented our opening statement, emphasizing how critical our work was during the early days of the pandemic and how now, caring for our consumers is more important than ever. We shared stories about our struggles and how we […]

December 2022 Special Election Results

Election results from SEIU 503 Board of Directors Special Election for Homecare and Client-Employed Providers At the SEIU Local 503 General Council held in August 2022, the elected delegates to General Council voted to increase the number of Board members who are client-employed providers or who work at a private homecare agency so that the […]

Public Sector Newsletter

July 28 Cast Your E-Ballot on the Proposed Contract Voting is now open! This Monday, State members received their electronic ballots through email, and the votes are coming in. Voting to ratify a contract is one of the single most impactful actions you can take as a union member, and it only happens once every two years. […]

PPS Workers Locked Out!

Earlier this week, PPS workers gathered to rally at PPS Headquarters to deliver a petition demanding that PPS provide paid leave to workers with COVID-19, who have been forced to drain their own vacation and sick leave because PPS stopped allowing workers out sick with COVID to use COVID leave. What workers didn’t expect was […]

Voter Pamphlet for the Special Election for Sector 08: Client Employed Provider Directors and Assistant Directors

Voter Pamphlet for the Special Election for Sector 08: Client Employed Provider Directors and Assistant Directors   Legal notice: The Voters’ Pamphlet includes all declared candidates running for Board of Directors positions and contains campaign materials from candidates for elective office within SEIU Local 503. By distributing this material, SEIU Local 503 does not endorse […]

2022 General Election: We did it!

The leadup to the 2022 General Election was filled with uncertainty, but resulted in key victories for SEIU 503 members up and down the ballot. These wins put us in a position to bargain for good contracts next year and have state leadership that supports working families. All of our endorsements and political activity is […]

SEIU 503 Statement on Treasurer Read’s Decarbonization Plan

We appreciate Treasurer Read and the Oregon Investment Council (OIC)’s management of our members’ retirement funds, and the fact that our state remains among the soundest, most solvent pension funds in the nation. Today’s decarbonization plan is a critical step to ensure that our investments are financially sound and stop contributing towards climate change as […]

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Resources, rights, and protections for survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking

Protections for all Oregonians Address Confidentiality Program The Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) is a free mail forwarding service. It helps survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking shield their physical address. Learn More Public Records Personal Safety Exemption OR Department of Justice Public Records Personal Safety Exemption: you can request that the […]

The Importance of Canvassing by Carol Kelly

Hello, my name is Carol Kelly, and I am a Homecare and Personal support worker in Portland. I have been an SEIU member for over 8 years. I am writing because it is vital that we all get involved to help pro-worker candidates get elected on November 8th. Tina Kotek is our prime source of […]

SEIU 503 Celebrates Native American Heritage Month 2022

Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers  Our union is proud to once again celebrate the contributions of Native and Indigenous people in SEIU 503, the broader labor movement, Oregon, and our nation by observing Native American Heritage Month. As we continue to strive to have our actions speak louder […]

Homecare Bargaining Events Calendar

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Dignity Newsletter

November 23 Final Election Results The lead up to the 2022 General Election was filled with uncertainty but resulted in key victories for SEIU 503 members up and down the ballot. SEIU was a big reason why. In the final 10 days before the election, we knocked on over 50,000 doors and called nearly 53,000 […]

Notice of SEIU Local 503 Special Board of Directors Election and Nominations

At the SEIU Local 503 General Council held in August 2022, the elected delegates to General Council voted to increase the number of Board members who are client-employed providers or who work at a private homecare agency so that the SEIU Local 503 Board of Directors better represents the number of homecare, personal support, and […]

Ranked Choice Voting Information

Note: This page may be updated as new questions are received. Please check back regularly for updates. What is Ranked-Choice Voting?  Have you ever wanted to choose a candidate by how you rank them, 1, 2, 3?  Ranked-choice voting (RCV), also known as instant-runoff voting, gives you that opportunity and was adopted by our Union […]

Letter to Candidates with Election Information Overview for 2022 Special Election

TO:     Candidates for Board of Director (BOD) and Assistant Director BOD positions. FR:       The SEIU Local 503 Election Committee RE:       ELECTION INFORMATION OVERVIEW At the SEIU Local 503 General Council held in August 2022, the elected delegates to General Council voted to increase the number of Board members who are client-employed providers or who work at […]

Special Election for Client-Employed Provider and Private Homecare Agency Board of Directors Election Guidelines

Distribution of Campaign Literature and Campaigning a) The Union will comply with reasonable requests by candidates to distribute campaign literature to eligible voters at the candidate’s expense. All candidates will be treated equally with respect to the cost of distributing campaign materials. b) Candidates have the right to request a mailing(s) or emailing(s) (sorted for […]

New healthcare coverage for long-term care workers

Affordable, quality healthcare is now within reach! Through the Essential Worker Healthcare Trust, workers can now get great healthcare coverage for a low monthly premium. This is person-centered healthcare coverage for long-term care workers, by long-term care workers. Long-term care workers’ jobs are hard enough without having to worry about getting medical care. That’s why […]

Childcare Providers have approved moving to Oregon AFSCME

(español abajo) After many discussions, Interest Survey, and a poll sent to childcare bargaining members, a majority approved changing union affiliation from SEIU to Oregon AFSCME. Your SEIU Childcare Council leadership also supports changing affiliation union to AFSCME in order that license-exempt childcare providers have a stronger, more unified voice by joining together with thousands […]

Show Your Support for Tina Kotek

The November 8th election is fast approaching and the race for governor is a toss up. That means we could either be bargaining for good contracts with Tina Kotek or fighting to not lose the wins we’ve had in recent years if Christine Drazan is elected. You can show your support for Tina Kotek by […]

Indigenous People’s Day 2022

Reflections by the SEIU 503 Indigenous People’s Caucus: We have been bringing awareness to many issues in our community. Some of these things are Water is Life: As Indigenous people, we know, respect, and recognize the sacredness of our water. The interconnectedness of all life and the importance of protecting our water from pollution, drought, […]

Contract Bargaining

SEIU 503 members do the essential jobs that keep Oregon working. We risk our lives during wildfires, ensure that schools are clean and safe, provide lifelines to families in need, and so much more. Every Oregonian is affected by our work, and when we bargain our new contracts in 2023, we will demand the respect […]

Alvord-Taylor Workers win 17% raise, longevity bonuses, and more!

The Alvord-Taylor Bargaining Team has reached a two-year contract with an openly anti-union employer. Gains in this new contract include a 17 percent average pay increase, a night and weekend shift pay differential, and increased longevity bonuses. Increased competitive wages was the key issue that attracted the most support from SEIU 503 members at Alvord-Taylor. […]

New Board of Directors and Statewide Officers

Election results from September 2022 SEIU 503 Board of Directors and Statewide Officer Elections Statewide Officers Executive Director: Melissa Unger President: Mike Powers Vice President – Care Provider/Other: Joy’e Willman Vice President – Public Sector: Johnny Earl Secretary: Anastasia Godsey Treasurer: Thuy Huyen   Board of Directors Director Region 1 Central Valley: Paula Pena, Steve […]

New nursing home wage scales effective October 1, 2022

Each worker at Avalon, EmpRes, and Prestige will receive a $2.11 an hour wage increase effective Oct 1st. All workers will advance one step, and then the steps are adjusted to the new rates. If you are already at the top step, you will receive a $2.11/hr increase. Dakavia raised wages in May. All non-nursing […]

Letter of Agreement August 2022

Click here to read the letter.

Candidate Statements: 2022 Central Table Election

Candidates were invited to submit a candidate statement (400-word-limit) and photograph to be published online by September 18, 2022. All candidate statement and photo submissions submitted by the deadline can be found below in alphabetical order. Please use the link that was emailed to you to cast your vote. If you did not receive an […]

Email Update: Friday, September 16th, 2022

VOTE NOW in SEIU 503 Statewide Officer Elections The clock is ticking and it’s time to pick your choices to lead our union into the next two years. Statewide officer elections are happening now, and you have only a few days left to fill in and send your ballot back to Ryder Elections to be counted. […]

SEIU 503 Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month 2022

Each year, our union joins organizations across the nation in celebrating Latinx people from September 15 through October 15. After listening to our Latinx Caucus, we will be observing this month as Latinx Heritage Month, and we invite you to join us.   As we celebrate the contributions and recognize the injustices faced by Latinx […]

2022 General Election Volunteer Shift Signup

Where in the home stretch for Oregon’s November 8th General Election! From the threat of anti-worker candidates Christine Drazan and spoiler Betsy Johnson in the Governor’s race, to the need to maintain pro-worker majorities in both chambers of the legislature and elect a BOLI (Bureau of Labor & Industry) Commissioner who shares our values, there’s […]

Political Shift Signups 2022

Canvass Portland Metro Salem Eugene Medford Bend Astoria   Phonebank Statewide link

2022 Homecare Bargaining Kick-off picnics

Eugene Thursday, Sept 8th – 5:30 – 7:30 pm Eugene – Emerald Park for more information contact – Daniel Hayes (541) 735- 4489 Klamath Falls Saturday, Sept 10th at 1:00 pm  – Klamath Falls, Wiard park – for more information contact – Erik – (541) 601-8042  or register here! Portland Saturday, Sept 24th at 11:00 am – Portland  […]

September 2, 2022 Email Update

State Bargaining Campaign Kicking Off Soon! The start of State Bargaining is just around the corner! It all begins with our bargaining survey, which will determine what our priorities will be in this bargaining cycle.  Be sure to complete your survey when it opens on September 19th. We need to start preparing now if we […]

Grimm, John: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Contreras, Amanda: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Aviles, Cristina: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Sandoval, Rebecca: Candidate for Director

It has been an honor and a privilege to have served on the 503 BOD, in some capacity, for the last 12 years.  It has felt like being a member of a dynamic, substantial, powerful, transformative “Think Tank” for an organization of equal stature and value.  Having been an active participant in almost every conversation or discussion […]

Voskanian, Melody: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Nelson, Lindie: Candidate for Assistant Director

I am running for the position of Assistant Director for the Institutions Coalition. As an LPN at Oregon State Hospital for the past 8.5 years, I have served as part of Oregon State Hospital’s SEIU Local 392 leadership team as Member At Large since 2020 and as a steward since 2019. I have had the […]

Combs, Tami: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Prislac, Thomas: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Arntson, Aaron: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Vaughn, Ehren: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Ehren Vaughn, and I am running for the position of Assistant Director for the Human Services Coalition.  For more than 12 years, I have worked for the State of Oregon and been a proud member of SEIU 503, Local 471.  I have served as a Steward, General Council Delegate, Section Officer, and current Assistant […]

Mounir, Mohamed: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Cook, Rebekah: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Segura, Alejandro: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Muhly, Mary: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Jones, Jean: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Hearrell, Teri: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Rosen, Janet: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Rivero, Ivonne: Candidate for Director

Hello! My name is Ivonne Rivero and am running for re-election in 2022 as a Board Director for Region 6. I am a Homecare Worker and I live in Portland, Oregon.   I am a woman, a caregiver and an immigrant in an industry where the majority of people who perform this work share these […]

Williams, Michael: Candidate for Assistant Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Vegar, Joy: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Joy Vegar. I’m running for Assistant Director District 5. As a small town resident I understand the rhythm and pace of rural living.  I know the special challenges that we face. I would like to be our voice on the BOD. I’ve been an active member of SEIU 503 and Local 99 Homecare […]

Jelley, Angela: Candidate for Director

I am running for the Board of Directors because I feel that I could represent, a wide group of our union members, that sometimes don’t feel heard, the rural workers in our state. I was born and raised on a ranch in Douglas county. I have been married for 32 years with 6 kids, 18 […]

Thompson, Ruby: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Ruby Thompson and I am an essential worker at the University of Oregon.  I also serve as the Lead  of the Contact Action Team for SEIU Local 085 on the Executive Committee and am a Steward. I’m a proud member of SEIU Local 085 and I am asking you to vote for me to […]

Larsen, Luella: Candidate for Director

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Godown, Ashley: Candidate for Statewide Secretary

This candidate did not submit a statement or photograph by the deadline.

Evans, Barbara: Candidate for Statewide Executive Director

OLA!  Hello Everyone in our great 503 SEIU UNION!  I just wanted to say a few things regarding this election for OFFICE, and why I am running. There has been Great strides taken by our volunteer workers to get us where we are now, but I am concerned about the direction we are going in […]

May, Joshua: Candidate for Assistant Director

Halito my fellow laborers,   I would like to humbly request your support in this year’s Board of Directors election. I have been working the past 4 years as a leader on the DHS/OHA Local 200 leadership team working with staff and executive leadership and would like to contribute on a greater level in aiding […]

Peña, Paula: Candidate for Director

Greetings SEIU503 SIBLINGS! My name is Paulita Peña. I have the honor of running for a second term as a Union Board Director. Being engaged and active in our union for the last few years has been a challenge filled with much love and many lessons, and I am here to ask to continue this […]

Marshall, Kaki: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Kaki Marshall and I work at ODE as a Fiscal Analyst. I am a Delegate for Sub-Local 581, where I serve as a VP and a Delegate. I bring lived experience as a youth experiencing homelessness and 10 years of experience organizing in public service for racial equity. I have decades of […]

Lopez, Alma: Candidate for Director (Nursing Home President)

My name Is ALMA LOPEZ. I am a CMA at Laurelhurst village Avamere. I have been a CNA since 2001 and a CMA since 2009. I am the union steward in my facility, and I have been your chain Representative in the Nursing home council for the past 2 years. I want to start by […]

Riggs, Josefina: Candidate for Assistant Director

Being part of the Union, SEIU 503 is a path to learning. I have been a member of SEIU for about 12 years. I work as a PSW in Central Oregon with children with special needs, I love my job. I want the Union in Oregon to be strong, that we not lose what we […]

Holliday, Shawn: Candidate for Director

Hello SEIU 503 Members, For the past 10 years I have served as a steward, general counsel delegate, vice president of OSH at the JC campus bargaining delegate, 503 BOD director for the institution coalition and a CAPE delegate. I have worked hard to help build our membership, train others and fought for what is […]

Scott, Malcom: Candidate for Director

To Whom It May Concern: My name is Malcolm G. Scott, I am employed by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Commerce and Compliance Division. My title is Motor Carrier Enforcement Officer. My job is to make sure Commercial motor vehicles are in compliance with State and Federal laws. I have been employed by ODOT for […]

Obeketang, Arnedia: Candidate for Assistant Director (Nursing Home Vice President)

Hi, my name is Arnedia Kiarii Obeketang and I am a Proud member of SEIU 503 Sub Local 97 NH. I perceive my greatest challenge, contributions, and achievement as my full force commitment to support and encourage my fellow members to become proactive in providing quality residence care as well as innovative ways reflecting a […]

Rise, unite, fight, win! SEIU 503 members come together for General Council

Thanks to SEIU 503 member leaders and delegates for making this year’s first ever hybrid General Council so successful! The three-day event, held in Portland, allowed members the opportunity to participate in person or virtually. It was an incredible opportunity to see so many familiar and new faces (in the flesh and on Zoom) and […]

Thordsen, Mark: Candidate for Director

My name is Mark Thordsen and I’m running for the board of directors for Region 4, Southern Oregon. I have lived in Klamath Falls now for six years and love this part of the state. Over the last two years I have been able to serve as a board member, partly as an assistant director […]

City of Springfield workers win in new contract!

Last week, SEIU members settled a new contract with the City of Springfield! This campaign has lasted months, and was won because of the hard work of the members who made their voices heard through bargaining surveys, stayed in the loop by attending union meetings and fought for what they deserved at the bargaining table. […]

Candidate Video Statements

Candidates for Statewide Office were invited to submit a candidate video statement by August 9, 2022, by 5pm, for publication on the website. The videos for all candidates who submitted a video by the deadline are published below. Statewide President     Executive Director Statewide Vice President Public Sector   Statewide Vice President Other Sectors […]

Email Update: Friday, August 19th, 2022

General Council 2022: A Great Success! Thanks to SEIU 503 member leaders and delegates for making this year’s first ever hybrid General Council so successful! The three-day event, held in Portland, allowed members the opportunity to participate in person or virtually. It was an incredible opportunity to see so many familiar and new faces (in […]

Olsen, Manfred: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Manfred Olsen and I’m running for Assistant Director of Region 2. I have been a proud member of our Union over for 8 years now and currently a Union steward at the Oregon State Hospital in Junction City. I sincerely believe the more we get involved with our Union we gain the […]

Notdurft, Shaun: Candidate for Director

Qualifications: collective bargaining, president, chief steward for OSLP Local 902 since 1996. I have also served as both Director and Assistant Director for the Private non Profit sector since the restructure of the board. In addition: I work well with others, I bring a sense of humor and I strongly believe that being solution-driven must […]

News and Media Inquiries

Please contact Pati Urias by email or by phone at 480.322.2270.

Bracken, Renae: Candidate for Director

Osiyo/Greetings fellow SEIU503 Members. I am Renae Bracken, a proud Cherokee Citizen and member of the Willamette Tsa-La-Gi At-Large Cherokee Community of Oregon. I am a State Worker employed with the Oregon Department of Justice in the Child Advocacy Section located in Eugene, Oregon. I belong to sub-local 137 and serve as our Vice President. […]

Candidate Statements

Emerson, Steve: Candidate for Director

I’m running for the Board of Directors because I want seasonal, limited duration, temporary, and permanent field staff at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) to have representation amongst our Union’s leadership. I was the first ever seasonal employee to serve as a steward at ODFW. Shortly after becoming a steward, I joined […]

Ko Thompson, Theo: Candidate for Statewide Vice President - Public Sector

I am Theodora Ko Thompson. It will be an honor to serve as Vice President for Public Services, with my experiences on the Board serving as Statewide Secretary, Regional Director East, and West Central Valley, Assistant Director for Higher Ed. At 085 University of Oregon: Lead General Council Delegate, President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Newsletter Editor. I […]

Kelly, Carol: Candidate for Director

My name is Carol Kelly and I am running for position Director Region 6 for Multnomah and Clackamas County. I am currently Director Region 1 Multnomah County and President of AFRAM Caucus SEIU 503, Local 99. I have experience in bringing together the masses in organizations and possess high people and communication skills of all […]

Workman, Mark: Candidate for Assistant Director

Greetings, My name is Mark Workman (He, Him, His) and I’m excited to run for the position of Sector 07: Private Non-Profit Assistant Director. Since 2002 I’ve been employed in a workplace with collective bargaining represented by SEIU. During this time, I’ve worked beneath hostile management that tried to decertify our right to bargain, and […]

Powers, Mike: Candidate for Statewide President

Our Union is strong. In the past two years we fought for and won contracts for all our members that improved pay, health care, and training. Government workers won remote work options, improved workplace safety, and pension protections. Care providers won vital settlements holding the state accountable and awarding millions of dollars to their members. […]

Hitchcock, Donald: Candidate for Director

This is my first Union that I’ve been involved in and very excited to have a chance to better not only my life but for fellow workers alike. As a Steward for ADDUS Home health care,I get to talk to alot of employees and understand today’s workforce. I worked as a farmer in Oklahoma for […]

Lamar, Kathleen: Candidate for Assistant Director

As a Union leader for over 20 years, I have represented our members in many ways. I have been steward, chief steward, Board Assistant Director and Director, and General Council delegate. I have been a bargaining delegate at the Specials Coalition table for 10 years. I am currently the President of the Dept. of Justice […]

Ordway, Eileen: Candidate for Statewide Executive Director

Vote for Eileen Ordway Reboot 503 for worker justice.  Worker justice is the foundation of social justice for all.  Help me bring 503 back to being a champion for workers because nobody puts workers in a corner.  Help me in making justice a standard we can be proud of for ourselves and others.  We have […]

Straw, Trish: Candidate for Assistant Director

My name is Trish Straw. This is my 3rd term as President of MCEA 294. We just won a historical 10% COLA along with many other benefits that our members desperately needed. I have many years of service working within the union in various positions at the sub-local & local level. I’m asking for your […]

Romero, Guillermo: Candidate for Director

Todays political challenges, social unrest and the current health crisis, requires strong and dedicated leadership. I have the working knowledge, skill level, experience and leadership which the position of Region 7 Director. requires. As the current Region 7 Director, the past Chair of Sub-local 201, past Co-Chair of the Civil and Human Rights Committee, CAPE […]

Horton, Avery: Candidate for Statewide President

VOTE FOR AVERY HORTON, 503 PRESIDENT Do you notice how 503 leaders are similar to the leaders in Washington, DC? Biden blames Putin for our economy and inflation, while 503 leaders blame Freedom Foundation. Biden refuses to accept responsibility and 503 leaders do likewise. Biden doesn’t represent your best interests as a citizen, and 503 leaders […]

Walker, Lisa: Candidate for Director

My name is Lisa Walker and I work for Linn County. I am pursuing the Board of Director for Local Government position because I want to continue to support my union brothers and sisters at the 503 level. In the last two years, I have learned a lot on how our union runs between general […]

Tuma-Schmidt, Bernardo: Candidate for Statewide Executive Director

I STAND FIRM with thousands of my brothers and sisters to fight for better wages for our union members, and lead the union to a historical bargaining negotiation to make up for the losses caused by inflation that has impacted our wages , and our way of life. I STAND FIRM, that our goals shall […]

International Day of the World’s Indigenous People 2022

The following statement is from the SEIU 503 Indigenous People’s Caucus: The International Day of the World’s Indigenous People on August 9 pays tribute to the indigenous communities of the world. The latest data reveals that there are about 370 to 500 million indigenous people living in 90 countries. These communities are noted to have […]

DeJarnac, Cristal: Candidate for Director

Hello, my name is Cristal DeJarnac I am running for the position of SEIU 503 Board of Directors, Region 5 – Director. I want to continue to build a bridge across all Sectors, after all “WE ARE ALL SEIU 503”!!! I’m a Homecare Worker and member leader in Bend. I love working with and representing […]

General Council 2022 Voting

Instructions for Virtual Attendees Navigate to cloudvotejoin.com on your computer, phone, or device browser  Enter SEIU503 (not case sensitive) when prompted to enter Join Code  (There may be a pause to wait for the session to open before next screen)  Enter Name and ID when prompted  Await vote instructions. Votes will look something like this […]

Huyen, Thuy: Candidate for Statewide Treasurer

Hello Fellow Union Members, My name is Thuy Huyen and I am running for Statewide Treasurer. I’ve worked at Portland State University in University Financial Services for twenty years. In that time I’ve been a proud and active member. I’ve served on the Board as a Director for Region 6. I’ve served on the Executive, […]

Unger, Melissa: Candidate for Statewide Executive Director

I have been our Union’s Executive Director for 5 years. It has been an honor to serve with amazing union leaders fighting for respect in their work. I am proud to oversee our staff, our budget, and work alongside our President and board members to guide the vision and strategy for our union. I have […]

UNION STRONG: OPB Union Picket, Columbia Store Discount and More!

OPB Members Picket for a Fair Contract On Tuesday dozens of SEIU Local 503 members and supporters picketed in front of the OPB (Oregon Public Broadcasting) Headquarters in Portland to demand a fair contract and reasonable Cost of Living Adjustments in the face of runaway inflation. In June, CEO Steve Bass sent an email to […]

Earl, Johnny: Candidate for Statewide Vice President - Public Sector

Fellow Union Members- My name is Johnny Earl and I am running for the Vice President for the Public Sector of SEIU 503. I have been a member of Local 503, sub-Local 085 at the University of Oregon. I am running to bring respect and integrity into everything we do as an organization, be it […]

Willman, Joy'e: Candidate for Statewide Vice President - Care Provider or Other

My name is Joy’e Willman. I am a Personal Support Worker under the Homecare contract. I am running to be the new Vice President for the Care sector and I am asking for your vote. I believe in Respect, Equity and Union Jobs for working families. Our union is the best chance we have to […]

Clark, Andrea: Candidate for Director

Andrea Clark Local 99: Homecare Worker I’m a lifelong Oregon resident, graduate of the University of Oregon, and a long-time homecare worker, caring for my mom. My involvement with SEIU 503 came after witnessing the many injustices and challenges that both care providers and their consumers face every day, watching the most vulnerable people in […]

Falkenstein, Patty: Candidate for Director

Greetings union sisters and brothers! My name is Patty Falkenstein and I am running for the board of directors for our union. Being on the board means the ability to represent my fellow union members and weigh in on matters that concern all of us. Integrity and honesty are in my opinion hallmarks of true […]

Hill, Renae: Candidate for Assistant Director

Renae has worked in the allied home-care and healthcare field for more than 14 years, from pediatrics to geriatrics. She grew up in southern California in a very stereotypical frowned-upon environment. She was deemed an underdog from a young age, which she uses as fuel to crush stigmas and leave stereotypes in the dust. Her […]

Brown, Max: Candidate for Director

It would be an honor to serve another term as one of your Region 1 Directors, and I’m excited for this opportunity to ask for your vote. I have worked in the Aging & People with Disabilities program at ODHS for 17 years, and have been an active SEIU 503 member ever since. I am […]

Mundell, Susan: Candidate for Director

It has been my pleasure to serve on the Board of Directors of SEIU Local 503 for the last 6 years. Most recently as Specials Coalition Assistant Director. Your board of directors works for you and makes thoughtful decisions with your best interests in mind. I ask for your vote as Specials Coalition Director to […]

Prentiss, Stephanie: Candidate for Director

Hello, my name is Stephanie Prentiss, and I have served as the SEIU 503 Board of Director for Higher Education for two years now. I am running again to serve as the SEIU Board of Director for Higher Education because there is so much more work that needs to be done. I have worked for […]

Schuman, Rae: Candidate for Statewide President

There is a recession on the rise, and it’s going to be hitting us sooner than we would like. We need the strongest leadership to defend the workers now more than ever. While the foundations we have built have won us victories, we still have much fighting to do. The rich continue to get richer […]

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Oregon Hosts First Labor Climate Summit

(L-R SEIU 503 President Mike Powers, Ivonne Rivero, Carol Kelly, Carolynn Kohout, Emily Wang, Patty Falkenstein at the Oregon Labor Climate Summit)  By: Carol Kelly  Last week, the Oregon Blue Green Alliance hosted Oregon’s first labor climate summit. Representatives from more than a dozen unions across our state were there together in one room to […]

Moore, Helen: Candidate for Assistant Director

I am running for the position of Assistant Director of Region 5 of OPEU/SEIU 503. As an employee of Eastern Oregon University, I have been an active member of our Union for 42 years. I have participated in, and helped organize numerous actions, which have helped my fellow members gain and retain many of the […]

Al Refai, Khalil: Candidate for Assistant Director

General Council 2022 Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Portland Hilton Downtown? For directions, visit our General Council page, which also gives details on how and where to park during check-in to the hotel and where to park during your stay at GC. What types of health precautions are there on site? We will offer rapid COVID testing […]

Godsey, Anastasia: Candidate for Statewide Secretary

Dear 503 Members, I am running for Statewide Secretary and I humbly ask for your vote. I bring diversity and thinking outside the box to the table. I pledge to listen to your needs and to advocate on your behalf. I’ve been a proud Union member since 2004 when I started my work for Oregon […]

Strle, Ronald: Candidate for Director (Nursing Home President)

My dear SEIU 503 Brothers & Sisters,   My name is Ron Strle, I have been a CNA at Prestige Hood River Care Center in Hood River for the since February 2016. I have been a CNA for 11 years. I am a union steward representing members in many grievances with a very good track […]

Human Services Communications Action Team

  Welcome to your one-stop-shop for everything CAT-related on the Human Services team! This page is updated on an ongoing basis to make materials available to CATs so be sure to bookmark this page and check back frequently for updates about events and new bargaining initiatives. Want to be a CAT? Need to update your […]

2018 UICC LMC Charter

2018_UICC_LMC_Charter   UICC REGIONAL LABOR-MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE CHARTER AND STRUCTURE  September 2020   BEAVERTON, BEND, NORTH VALLEY AND WILSONVILLE UI CONTACT CENTERS   Purpose:   The Employment Department’s Unemployment Insurance Contact Center Regional Labor-Management Committee (UICC Regional LMC) is comprised of labor and management representatives that meet and confer for the purpose of:   Regularly communicating […]

A New Opportunity For Childcare Workers

Childcare members of SEIU Local 503 to guide the union’s direction by way of a polling taken from late August through mid-Sept.  Based on our membership’s survey responses and the need for a stronger, more unified voice to win improvements for ourselves and the children and families we serve, Local 96 Childcare Board is recommending […]

Interrupting Oppression (112)

This is the landing page for the Interrupting Oppression (112) workshop that is part of SEIU 503’s OEI Series. It discusses the impacts of racism, sexism, ableism, and homophobia on labor and strategies for dealing with them. Workshop Summary: 503 is committed to building inclusive and equitable union spaces because Unions are formed to better […]

El lunes, 18 de julio es el último día para registrarse en el Consejo General

La fecha límite está acerca, pero aún tiene tiempo de registrarse en el Consejo General de este año. El Consejo General del 2022 se llevará a cabo del jueves, 11 de agosto al domingo, 14 de agosto, en el Hilton Portland Downtown. Comprende un programa completo disponible para los (las) delegados(as) de SEIU 503, que incluye […]

注册一般委员会的截止日期是 7 月 18 日（周一）

截止日期已临近，但您还有时间注册参加今年的一般委员会。 2022 年一般委员会将于 8 月 11 日（星期四）至 8 月 14 日（星期日）期间举办，会址为 Hilton Portland Downtown。SEIU 503 代表已制定一套完整的会议议程，包括研讨会、演讲、工会管理和娱乐，所以您可以和同为工会成员的朋友们一起享受此次活动。 这是我们首次以混合方式举办一般委员会，所以如果您不能到现场出席，仍然可以通过虚拟方式参与，并通过手机、平板电脑或其他设备舒适地体验一般委员会的精彩。您甚至有机会对决议进行审查、评论和投票。填写注册表格时，只需选择虚拟选项即可。 今天就注册！注册截止时间是 7 月 18 日（星期一） 准备崛起、团结起来、共同奋斗、赢得胜利。 团结一致， SEIU 503

اليوم الأخير للتسجيل لحضور المجلس العام هو يوم الإثنين 18 يوليو

اقترب الموعد النهائي، لكن لا تزال الفرصة سانحة لك للتسجيل في المجلس العام لهذا العام. سينعقد المجلس العام لسنة 2022 من يوم الخميس 11 أغسطس إلى الأحد 14 أغسطس في هيلتون بورتلاند داون تاون. وهناك برنامج كامل متاح لمندوبي SEIU 503 بما في ذلك ورش العمل، والمتحدثين، وحوكمة اتحادنا وترفيهنا، حتى يتسنى لك الاستمتاع بالفاعلية […]

Ngày cuối cùng để đăng ký tham gia Đại Hội Đồng là Thứ Hai, Ngày 18 Tháng 7

Thời hạn đã đến gần, nhưng bạn vẫn còn thời gian để đăng ký tham gia Đại Hội Đồng năm nay. Đại Hội Đồng 2022 diễn ra từ Thứ Năm, Ngày 11 Tháng 8 đến Chủ Nhật, Ngày 14 Tháng 8 tại Hilton Portland Downtown. Có một chương trình đầy đủ dành cho các đại […]

Kennedy-Smith, Andrea: Candidate for Director

I am Andrea Kennedy-Smith and I have been a Paralegal for Child Welfare for 15 years in Washington County. I have been an active SEIU member leader for 15 years including service as Chair and Secretary for Sub-local 216, Chief Steward, 2 terms as SEIU Local 503, OPEU Vice President for the Public Sector, General […]

Important Action Needed – New Ameriflex Cards Being Issued

Ameriflex is issuing all care providers new Benefit Convenience Cards on July 12, 2022. Ameriflex recently transitioned to a new card processing vendor and throughout the year they have been transitioning their accounts to the new card platform. Our account is one of the last ones to make the transition. This change should provide a […]

Dignity Newsletter: July 8, 2022 Edition

Important Action Needed – New Ameriflex Cards Being Issued Ameriflex is issuing all care providers new Benefit Convenience Cards on July 12, 2022. Ameriflex recently transitioned to a new card processing vendor and throughout the year they have been transitioning their accounts to the new card platform. Our account is one of the last ones […]

Public Sector Newsletter: July 8, 2022 Edition

MCEA Ratifies Their Contract with Huge Gains for Members! After several years of Marion County Commissioners demoralizing workers and not agreeing to COLAs beyond 2%, we went into bargaining knowing we had an uphill battle and needed to run a strong campaign. With nearly 600 workers signing on to our petition for a fair contract, […]

2022 General Council Union Operations Committee

Resolutions: Union Operations Committee #1: Reducing SEIU 503’s Climate Impact AMENDED Impact Statement Union Operations Committee #2: Overcoming the Digital Divide AMENDED Impact Statement Union Operations Committee #3: Creating a Union-Wide Standard for Language Justice and Access AMENDED Impact Statement Union Operations Committee #4: Ranked Choice Voting for Statewide Officer and Board of Directors Elections […]

2022 General Council Membership Affairs Committee

All resolutions passed: Membership Affairs #1: Documenting the History of SEIU 503 AMENDED Impact Statement Membership Affairs #2: Engaging Our Members in the Health of Our Union Through Recruitment, Reactivation and Retention AMENDED Impact Statement Membership Affairs #3: Creating Pathways for Leadership of BIPOC Members, LGBTQIA+ People and Members with Disabilities AMENDED Impact Statement Membership […]

2022 General Council ESPIA Committee

All resolutions passed: ESPIA #1: Transparency in State Treasury Investments Impact Statement ESPIA #2: Legislative Action on Climate Impact Statement ESPIA #3: Support the Development of Tenant Unions Impact Statement ESPIA #4: Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harrassment AMENDED Impact Statement   Español ESPIA #1: Transparency in State Treasury Investments ESPIA #2: Legislative Action on Climate ESPIA #3: […]

2022 General Council Employee Relations Committee

All resolutions passed. Employee Relations Committee #1: Organizing and Increasing Standards in Community-Based Care AMENDED Impact Statement Employee Relations Committee #2: Private Equity and Quality of Long Term Care Jobs Impact Statement Employee Relations Committee #3: Bargaining Equity AMENDED Impact Statement  Employee Relations Committee #4: Confronting the Health Care Worker Crisis AMENDED Impact Statement   […]

2022 General Council Early Voting Resolutions

Resolutions: Make Board Quorum Requirements Consistent with Practice Impact Statement Clarify Term Limits for Board of Directors Positions Impact Statement Clarify Which General Council Resolutions are Protected from Denial Because of a Technicality Impact Statement Update List of Union Member Protected Rights to Include Union Election Speech Impact Statement State the Board’s Authority to Determine […]

2022 General Council Bylaws Committee

All resolutions passed: Bylaws #1: SEIU 503 Board Seats for Homecare Workers AMENDED Impact Statement Bylaws #2: Include “Encourage Members to Drop Membership” as Misconduct Impact Statement Bylaws #3: Clarify Required Membership Status of Statewide Officers and Immediate Past President Impact Statement Bylaws #4: Electronic Voting Simplified and Authorized for Private Sector Locals AMENDED Impact […]

2023 Bargaining

Coming soon!

Your Union Wins Settlement for Workers Who Faced Delays in OregonSaves Implementation

SEIU 503 has scored a $1 million victory for Homecare Workers, Personal Care Attendants, and Personal Support Workers participating in OregonSaves. Our Union won a retirement security provision for workers in their most recent contract (2019-21), allowing them to participate in the OregonSaves retirement program through payroll deduction. However, it took months for the state […]

SEIU Locals Help Organize Nevada Homecare Workers

Members and staff from SEIU 503 were part of a group of SEIU locals that traveled to Las Vegas this month to organize homecare workers in Nevada for better wages and working conditions. Pay for workers averages only $11 an hour, and staff have no benefits such as vacation, sick pay, or health insurance. It […]

Refresher Training Deadline is June 30

June 30th, the final deadline to complete mandatory refresher training is just around the corner. We understand that when your profession is taking care of others, it can be hard to find time for training. Care providers have busy schedules and Carewell is here to support you to finish on time. The state is saying […]

Take a break. Carewell SEIU 503 offers Paid Time Off (PTO) to eligible care providers!

The Carewell SEIU 503 PTO benefit helps you take time off from work when you need to. If you worked more than 80 hours in either March, April, or May of 2022, you’ve earned 20 hours of Paid Time Off! Carewell SEIU 503 will send you a letter and other info about the PTO benefit […]

Statement from SEIU 503 Leadership on Supreme Court's Overturning of Roe v. Wade

“We expected the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) to overturn Roe v. Wade after the draft opinion was leaked to the media in the spring. While we are not surprised, this is a dark day in our nation’s history, with the courts chipping away at women’s rights over their own bodies. We are […]

NOTICE OF 2022-2024 STATEWIDE OFFICER (SWO) and BOARD OF DIRECTOR (BOD) NOMINATIONS

Any SEIU 503 active or semi-active member in good standing may run for Statewide Office, Director or Assistant Director and any SEIU 503 active, semi-active, or staff member in good standing may run for Executive Director. SEIU 503 Statewide Officers and Board of Directors: Statewide Officers, Directors & Assistant Director Seats (See Article XI and […]

Statewide Officer and Board of Directors Election Guidelines

Distribution of Campaign Literature and Campaigning a) The Union will comply with reasonable requests by candidates to distribute campaign literature to eligible voters at the candidate’s expense. All candidates will be treated equally with respect to the cost of distributing campaign materials. b) Candidates have the right to request a mailing(s) or emailing(s) (sorted for […]

Now Recruiting for our next MLDP Wave!

It’s that time again! We’re recruiting leaders from across the public sector to participate in the Member Leader Development Program (MLDP), and we need your help. As an Officer and/or nominee, you know your sublocal and its members better than anyone. Are you interested in building power in their workplace? Please apply by July 22nd, 2022! The Member Leader Development Program was created to […]

Elections – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Note: Ranked choice voting information is separately published online at seiu503.org/weare503/. This FAQ addresses questions unrelated to ranked choice voting. 1.)  Q:  Why is it OK for some candidates to follow the Q & A format on candidate statements and others not; and why are typos and other mistakes reprinted? A:  The Elections Committee has […]

2022 SWO and BOD Elections Information Overview

TO:     Candidates for Statewide Officer (SWO) and Board of Director (BOD) and Assistant Director BOD positions. FR:       The SEIU Local 503 Election Committee RE:       ELECTION INFORMATION OVERVIEW The Statewide Officer (SWO) and Board of Director (BOD) elections will be held following the biennial session of the General Council at a time designated by the Statewide Officer […]

Statement from AFRAM for Juneteenth

Racism is built and reinforced along the lines of power. Those who govern the systems of power, have the relative freedom to subscribe to any level of dominance they choose. The problem is that this becomes the perfect nurturing environment, in which racism can thrive. Racist sentiments can be emboldened into the fabric of organizational […]

PPS Employees Reach a Historic Tentative Agreement!

SEIU represented workers at PPS reached a tentative agreement with management on a one-year extension of their current contract that includes the highest wage increases in memory and raises the starting wages for all of our members to around the 77th percentile of comparable Portland employers! Here’s an overview of the tentative agreement (Lea el […]

LOA Signed with the State on Hiring Bonuses, COLAs

On Wednesday June 8th, our central table bargaining team reached an agreement with the state that moves the implementation date of our next 3.1% cost-of-living salary increase (COLA) to August 1, 2022. It also allows the state to offer hiring bonuses for hard-to-fill positions. Under the current contract, we were set to receive a 3.1% COLA […]

2022 年一般委员会注册现已开放

尊敬的各位一般委员会代表: 大家期待的日子已经到来：SEIU 503 的 2022 年一般委员会注册现已开放。 我们有着完整的日程安排，包括一般委员会事务会议、培训、研讨会和鼓舞人心的演讲，以帮助我们在接下来的两年内准备崛起、团结起来、共同奋斗、赢得胜利。而且，在晚上，您将享受娱乐休闲，并有足够的空闲时间结识其他代表，或者和长时间未能见面的人交往互动。 如果您不能以现场形式参加一般委员会，还可以选择以虚拟方式参加一些研讨会和培训、聆听演讲并针对一般委员会决议投票。 一般委员会举办详情：   2022 年 8 月 11 日（星期四）- 8 月 14 日（星期日） Hilton Portland Downtown 921 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 请在此处注册此次一年两度的盛会。（请说明您计划以现场形式还是以虚拟形式参加一般委员会。） 希望您和我们一样开心。 团结一致，   Mike Powers 主席   Melissa Unger 执行董事  

Thời gian đăng ký Đại Hội Đồng Năm 2022 đã bắt đầu

Kính Gửi Các Đại Biểu Đại Hội Đồng: Ngày mà bạn chờ đợi đã đến: chúng tôi hiện đã bắt đầu tiếp nhận đăng ký cho Đại Hội Đồng Năm 2022 của SEIU 503. Chúng tôi có lịch biểu đầy đủ về các phiên làm việc của Đại Hội Đồng, chương trình đào tạo, hội […]

Ya está abierta la inscripción para el Consejo General del 2022

Estimados(as) delegados(as) del Consejo General: Llegó el día que estaban esperando: ya está abierta la inscripción para el Consejo General de SEIU 503 del 2022. Tenemos un cronograma completo de sesiones de negociación del Consejo General, capacitación, talleres y ponentes inspiradores que nos ayudarán a prepararnos para Hacer frente, Unirnos, Luchar y Ganar durante los […]

Открыта регистрация для участия в съезде Генерального совета в 2022 году

Уважаемые делегаты Генерального совета! День, которого вы ждали, наступил — открыта регистрация для участия в съезде Генерального совета SEIU 503 в 2022 году. У нас уже готово полное расписание заседаний, тренингов, семинаров и вдохновляющих выступлений, которые помогут нам быть готовыми встать, объединиться, бороться и побеждать в следующие два года. А вечером вам будут предложены развлечения и […]

Committee Members

请您预留时间：一般委员会，2022 年 8 月 11 日 - 14 日

尊敬的各位一般委员会代表: 我们一年两度的活动现已回归，并且将以现场形式举办！ 大家已经太久没有见面，我们很高兴地邀请您在今年夏天参加 SEIU 503 的 2022 年一般委员会。 请在您的日历上为这次非凡体验做好标注，会议将于 8 月 11 日（星期四）至 8 月 14 日（星期日）在波特兰举行。您将能够再次与其他代表互动、讨论委员会事务并就决议采取行动；大家已经很久没有作为一个团队聚在一起了，我们期待着齐聚一堂，制定我们工会未来两年的优先事项。 今年的一个新情况是：我们将以混合方式开展此次一般委员会活动，在线提供一些培训、研讨会和部分活动，以确保全州的代表都尽可能地参与其中。由于 SEIU 503 章程的变化，代表将能够在线或现场投票，具体取决于您选择以虚拟方式还是以现场方式参与。 注册即将开放。在那之前，让我们准备崛起、团结起来、共同奋斗、赢得胜利。

Hãy Để Dành Các Ngày: 11-14 Tháng 8 Năm 2022 cho sự kiện Đại Hội Đồng

Kính Gửi Các Đại Biểu Đại Hội Đồng: Sự kiện hằng năm của chúng ta lại sắp diễn ra theo hình thức gặp mặt trực tiếp! Đã quá lâu rồi và chúng tôi vô cùng vui mừng xin mời bạn tham gia Đại Hội Đồng Năm 2022 của SEIU 503 vào mùa hè này. Hãy […]

Marque la fecha en su calendario: reunión del Consejo General del 11 al 14 de agosto del 2022

Estimados(as) delegados(as) del Consejo General: ¡Nuestro evento semestral está de regreso y de forma presencial! Ha pasado demasiado tiempo, y estamos emocionados(as) de invitarlo(a) a la reunión del Consejo General de SEIU 503 del 2022 este verano. Marque esta fecha en su calendario para asistir a esta increíble experiencia, que se realizará en Portland del […]

Запомните эти даты: съезд Генерального совета, 11-14 августа 2022 года

Уважаемые делегаты Генерального совета! Наше мероприятие, проводящееся два раза в год, состоится в очном формате! После долгого перерыва мы рады пригласить вас на съезд Генерального совета SEIU 503 летом 2022 года. Занесите дату и место проведения этого выдающегося мероприятия в свои календари: Портленд, четверг, 11 августа – воскресенье, 14 августа. Вы снова сможете пообщаться со своими […]

State Workers Hiring Bonus and COLA Adjustment Letter of Agreement (LOA)

A copy of the Letter of Agreement can be found here. Frequently Asked Questions   When will I get my raise? The 3.1% salary increase is effective August 1, 2022, and employees will see that reflected on their September 1 paychecks.  That is four full months earlier than we initially bargained. Why didn’t we hold out […]

Find your Steward

Public Sector Higher Ed Institutions ODOT Specials Human Services Local Government Non Profit Care Providers Homecare/PSW Nursing Homes Child Care AFH

Steward List

Click the ‘Steward Name’ or ‘Steward Worksite’ table header to sort by that field. Type in the filter box to filter or search for a specific name.

Sub-local Officers Training

Training curriculum available for new sub-local officers These virtual options have been scheduled for those who were unable to attend in-person training on June 4-5, 2022 6/22-6/23 (5:30 – 7:00pm on both days); Click here to register. 7/9 (10:00am – 1:00pm): Click here to register. These trainings are for Sub-Local Presidents and Treasurers to understand […]

SEIU 503 Celebrates Pride Month

This statement is from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Pride Month 2022:  In a storm of “don’t say gay” and aggressive targeting of trans youth which is already resulting in family separation in some states, SEIU 503 is proud to celebrate Pride Month 2022 and continue lifting the voices […]

Take action to support recruitment and retention incentives

We recently shared the news that the State wants to offer recruitment bonuses to new hires entering hard-to-recruit-for positions. We asked for feedback from members, and thousands of you responded. Overwhelmingly, members believe attempts to address recruitment issues without also tackling employee retention won’t be enough to solve the problems of high vacancy and turnover […]

Candidate Statements

Candidates were invited to submit a candidate statement (400-word-limit) and photograph to be published online by August 26, 2022. All candidate statement and photo submissions submitted by the deadline can be found below. Click on the drop-down menu below statewide officer candidates to see candidates in your sector and/or region. You can view video statements […]

Candidate Statement Form

Candidates have the option to submit a photograph and candidate statement, limited to 400 words. If more than 400 words are submitted, the candidate statement will be cut off after 400 words. This photograph and candidate statement will be published online at seiu503.org. The statement and photograph cannot be modified after submission, so please review carefully […]

Jackson County Workers Settle Strong Contract

Jackson County SEIU 503 reached a settlement in their contract negotiations that includes strong COLA increases, no changes to health care costs or coverage, adding Juneteenth as a paid holiday, and more. This contract would not have been possible without the contributions of our member leaders on the bargaining team. They were laser-focused on winning […]

SEIU Members Unite for Climate, Jobs, Justice

My name is Lois Yoshishige. I’m a recent retiree from the University of Oregon and Co-Chair of SEIU 503’s Climate Justice Committee. I had the opportunity to attend the SEIU Climate, Jobs, and Justice Summit via Zoom in April. I was so excited to participate with more than 400 SEIU members internationally, including forty-nine of […]

Big wins for SEIU 503 candidates in the Oregon Primary

A message from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger:  I want to begin by thanking all who helped elect pro-worker champions in Oregon’s May 17th primary election. Every door knocked, every call made, every text sent, and every share on social media helped voters know which candidates support working families. While Oregon’s new law that […]

SEIU 503 Portland Forum Building Floor Plans

Take action now to support recruitment and retention incentives

We know hiring challenges are only one part of the issue when it comes to high vacancy rates and increased workload.  The State is trying to solve this problem with hiring bonuses, but we know that with record high inflation and the competition for workers nation-wide, retention (keeping current state employees working at the state), […]

General Council 2022

Thank you for helping make GC 2022 a successful event! 2022 General Council Resolutions and Impact Statements **All Resolutions Passed** View synopsis here For a summary of our bylaws, click here. Resoluciones del Consejo General y Declaraciones de Impacto de 2022 2022 年总理事会决议和影响报告 قرارات المجلس العام 2022 وبيانات الأثر 2022 มติสภาทั่วไปและแถลงการณ์ผลกระทบ   2022 GC Rules […]

Marion County Workers Reach Strong Tentative Agreement

The Marion County bargaining team has reached a tentative agreement (TA) with the county after a second marathon bargaining session which stretched on to almost midnight on Thursday, 4/28! A few of the highlights of the TA include:  10% across-the-board cost of living increases (5% on July 1, 2022, and 5% on July 1, 2023)  $1,500 pandemic […]

Oregon Department of Agriculture Sublocal 603

  Welcome to the homepage for the Oregon Department of Agriculture Sublocal 603! We know that when we win at the bargaining table, it’s because our members take an interest, get active in their union, and take action to support one another. Read on below to stay updated and support the fight for a fair […]

State Worker Steward Mentorship Program

In February 2022, the Contract Specialist Team launched the Steward Mentorship and Development Program (SMDP). The mission of this program is to connect Stewards of all levels of experience to be able to engage as a communiity across agencies and coalitions in a meaningful way that allows for Stewards to share ideas, collaborate and participate […]

ADA Accommodations for State Worker Stewards

This training will help you know and understand the new contract language around the ADA accommodations process LOA 00.00-19-369. We will provide a guide to help stewards support represented employees through the interactive ADA process. We will provide resources including timelines that you can pass along to employees that are requesting an ADA accommodation. You […]

Statement From SEIU 503 Leadership on Roe v. Wade

“The leaked draft decision indicating the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) intends to overturn Roe v. Wade is a disturbing development that will send our country back decades, leaving states to determine whether to allow abortion in their jurisdictions; while a number of states have unenforced pre-Roe v. Wade laws still on the […]

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month 2022

Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Asian Pacific American Heritage Month:  Each May, our union is proud to join the nation in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Last year, we spotlighted the rise in violence and harassment our API members face and supported the #StopAsianHate campaign. Tragically, […]

New Wage Scales and COLA for Avamere workers

Avamere workers settled on a new wage scale with management this week. All current employees will be placed on the new wage scale retroactive to May 1st, 2022. Any current employees making a base wage over the wage scale will receive a 75 cent per hour cost of living adjustment to their current base wage […]

Bylaws updated April 2022

General Council delegates approved updates to our bylaws changing how quorum is measured to allow for electronic voting to accommodate both in-person and remote voters at General Council. The change enables all delegates to make motions and vote on resolutions at General Council, rather than having to vote out-of-session.

April 2022 General Council Election Bylaws Changes: Election Results

2022 Election Results Sub-Locals 200-220 ODHS/OHA

Published April 22, 2022 Some results are still pending resolution of ties or acceptance of write-ins and will be listed as pending below. This page will be updated when pending results are finalized. The official publication date of all election results listed below is April 22, 2022, unless supplemental results note a later publication date.  […]

2022 Sub Local Election Results

This year SEIU 503 will elect more than 700 people to leadership positions across the state. As results from sub-local elections become available, they will be posted here. Results are posted in order they are finalized. Please reference the elections timelines to see when your sub-local ballots are due. Results may be listed as pending […]

Leadership Training

To register for any of the training, find the upcoming date below. If you are unsure whether you should sign up for a particular course reach out to your organizer or email contact@seiu503.org and we can try to help. Some training courses have eligibility requirements and are subject to approval. Once registered you should receive […]

March 30, 2022 Bargaining Update

March 30, 2022 On March 29, our MCEA bargaining team met with management for a sixth, and very important, bargaining session. At this meeting, we presented management with our economic proposal: an 8.5% Cost-of-living adjustment for all MCEA employees effective July 1, 2022, and an additional COLA of 2-5% (depending on inflation next year) effective […]

Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit Awareness Event May 7 in Salem

Our SEIU 503 Indigenous Peoples Caucus will be participating in the MMIWC2S movement event in solidarity with Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirits, grieving families, and individuals working on the frontlines to end this epidemic of violence against Indigenous people. This event is being hosted by Minneapolis group, Native Women Running, and proceeds […]

Oregon Homecare Workers Win $2.2 Million Settlement on Pay Issues

The Homecare and Personal Support bargaining team has secured a win for SEIU 503-represented workers concerning our November grievance filed against DHS about the issue of late and partial pay. Homecare and Personal Support Workers have been dealing with pay issues for years with no real resolution. As far back as 2019, DHS admitted to […]

Oregon Homecare Workers Win $1.3 Million Settlement on Pay Issues

We have been dealing with pay issues for years with no real resolution. As far back as 2019, the DHS admitted to a reporter from the Statesman Journal that they had issued nearly 10,000 late payments to care providers the previous year alone. Yet the problem continues. The launch of a new timekeeper system only […]

General Council

The highest governing body of SEIU Local 503 is our General Council. Any member can run for election to be one of the more than 400 delegates to this body. The General Council usually holds a convention biennially in even-numbered years. At our biennial convention we adopt our budget and, through the submission of resolutions, […]

Sub-local 99 Voting Instructions (English)

Important Union Election Information : To view these instructions in Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, or Russian, please click your preferred language below: Spanish / Español Vietnamese / Tiếng Việt Russian / русский Chinese / 中国人 Elections for Sub-local Representatives will take place from: 9:00 am PT on March 29, 2022, through 5:00 pm PT April […]

2022 Sub-local Elections Voting Instructions

The instructions listed below are for sub-locals 585, 83, 109, 125, 392, 440, 497, 690, 730, 858, 908, and 921. If you belong to another sub-local, visit seiu503.org/weare503/ to find voting instructions for your sub-local. Elections for Sub-local Representatives will take place from: 9:00 am PT on March 29, 2022, through 5:00 pm PT April […]

Sub-local 585 Blind Commission Candidate Statements

SEIU Local 503 Disclaimer: Nominated candidates were invited to submit a campaign statement not to exceed 200 words. SEIU 503 uniformly formats statements for publication and otherwise prints statements verbatim as submitted by the candidate(s). The following are statements and photographs submitted by candidates for this election. Any candidate not listed here did not submit […]

Homecare Sub-local Elections Voting FAQ

Where can I find voting instructions and candidate statements?  Click here to view candidate statements for sub-local 99.  Voting instructions can be viewed here (click preferred language below): English Spanish / Español Vietnamese / Tiếng Việt Russian / русский Chinese / 中国人 Why are we ranking candidates? Sub-local 99 voted in 2021 to amend their […]

SEIU 503 in Solidarity with Ukraine

Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Ukraine: The Russian government’s violent invasion of Ukraine is a gross violation of international law that is actively creating a historic humanitarian crisis. The intentional targeting of civilians has resulted in immeasurable suffering, thousands of deaths, and nearly 3 million people fleeing […]

March 9, 2022

March 9, 2022 On Tuesday, March 9, we met with the management bargaining team for our fifth negotiation meeting. While this was more contentious than previous meetings, it was also productive and important issues were laid out on the table and discussed. At this meeting, our union bargaining team again asked about our proposal for […]

February 22, 2022

February 22, 2022 Our MCEA Bargaining Team met with management for our fourth bargaining session on February 22. In this session, we proposed contract language that extends important rights and workplace protections, such as Just Cause rights, to temporary employees. We also proposed language to clarify our Discipline and Discharge article to make sure everyone […]

Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI)

Latest Updates February 3, 2022 DOGAMI Labor Management Committee Meeting Agenda Upcoming Meetings Membership Meeting, Tuesday, March 15 at 7pm Membership Meeting, Tuesday, April 19 at 7p Membership Meeting, Tuesday, May 17 at 7pm Membership Meeting, Tuesday, June 21 at 7pm Relevant Documents Department of Geology and Mineral Industries Sublocal Bylaws DOGAMI Labor/Management Committee Ground […]

State Mask Policy for Homecare and Personal Support Workers

The State has determined there will be no changes in the mask policy for homecare workers, personal support workers, and personal care attendants, even though the Governor is lifting mask mandates for most indoor public settings in Oregon after March 11. Read about Oregon Health Authority’s tips for wearing a mask here These current exceptions […]

Candidate for Adult Foster Home District Council Director: Tom Johnson, Adult Foster Homes

Looking forward to continuing to work as a team and strengthen our Union even more.

Sub-Local Elections -- Local

Sub-Local Elections

72,000 people. 700 elected leaders. All working together for better wages and benefits, a voice on the job, and to grow our union. SEIU 503 is a democratic, member-run union. Every two years, we elect more than 700 leaders to a variety of positions, such as the Board of Directors, sub local officers, and statewide […]

Portland Public Schools

Who are PPS Workers? We are Nutrition Services and Custodial workers of Portland Public Schools. We are people who put food on plates, and wipe surfaces clean every day to ensure that our schools are safe and healthy. What do we want? In 2023, we are bargaining a new contract that covers wages, benefits, and workplace […]

Successful 2022 Legislative Session for SEIU 503 Members

Oregon’s 2022 legislative session ended on Friday, after lawmakers passed all of our priority bills. Short sessions are difficult times to pass policy bills, but through SEIU 503 members’ advocacy and working with partners across Oregon, we were able to move important pieces of legislation that will have an impact on our state for decades […]

Women’s History Month 2022

Statement by SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger: Today is International Women’s Day and this month is Women’s History Month. For SEIU 503 members, it’s personal. Women play critical roles in our union. About 70% of our members are women. Our staff is majority women. Our staff leadership is almost entirely women. We are Oregon’s […]

TEST Segmented Calendar HCW

  This calendar is maintained by SEIU Local 503 Events Strategist Melissa Gustav. Please contact her at gustavm@seiu503.org with questions or to request changes. If you need to request lodging, catering or other services related to an event, please use this form.  All event attendees must agree to follow the SEIU Local 503 Code of […]

Child Care License Exempt Reimbursement Descriptions (Traducción al español abajo)

Article 5, Section 5- License Exempt Training Stipend for Transportation and Substitute Care Who can be paid: License Exempt Family Child Care Providers Participating in DHS Subsidy, and not licensed with the Office of Child Care. What is the stipend for: Stipends are $15.00 per hour for costs associated with transportation and substitute care for […]

Oregon seniors need care transparency and safe staffing

A systemic lack of training in the Memory Care industry has led to abysmal conditions for patients Recently an article was published in the New York Times exposing the darker side of memory care right here in Oregon. Low pay, short staffing, lack of training and high turnover led to substandard patient care The Rawlin, […]

Feb 11, 2022 Bargaining Update

We met with management for our third bargaining session on Thursday, February 10. At this session, our union bargaining team made proposals dealing with several issues that MCEA members indicated as key priorities for this contract. Our proposals included:  A one-time $3,000 pandemic recognition bonus in appreciation of the work Marion County employees have been […]

Higher Ed Member Leader Development Program

The Member Leader Development Program (MLDP) was created to bring members into the heart of SEIU operations and provide them with training and resources to be leaders in their local Unions. This program runs for a minimum of 8 weeks, and includes a variety of Higher Ed workers each session. Each session is referred to commonly […]

AFRAM statement on Black History Month 2022

Hello, my name is Carol Littleton-Kelly. I am the newly elected President of SEIU 503’s African American (AFRAM) Caucus, Sub-Local 99. I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. I enjoy helping others as a homecare worker (HCW), personal support worker (PSW), and community public engagement advocate.    As you know, February is the federally designated […]

SEIU 503 Celebrates Black History Month 2022

Statement by SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers: We celebrate Black History Month in recognition of contributions past and continuing to today of Black, African, and African American people, towards gaining a deeper understanding of our fellow Oregonians. Black History Month began in 1915 when thousands of African Americans convened in […]

New York Times spotlights Oregon’s care crisis, Legislature can help

People who work in care, their consumers, and their families know that Oregon’s system is in crisis. Prior to the pandemic, SEIU 503 members had been doing our best to alert policymakers to the lack of staffing and the supports that could be established to fix it. Then came COVID-19 and a bad situation became […]

Jan 25, 2022 Bargaining Update

On Monday, January 24, your MCEA Bargaining Team met with the County for the second session of bargaining over our new contract. In this meeting we delivered our opening statement outlining our bargaining priorities and expectations for negotiations. We also spent more time discussing bargaining ground rules, but we haven’t reached agreement on them yet, and gave the County our […]

Big wins at Avamere ALFs

Our new Avamere ALF agreement has been voted on and agreed to with a 100% yes vote. Highlights of our tentative agreement: • A new wage scale effective January 1, 2022 (see below). • Another raise on January 1, 2023 (increase 1 step, plus 3% cost of living increase). • An extra $7.50 per hour […]

Jan 18, 2022: MCEA Bargaining Update

MCEA Bargaining Update After a marathon bargaining session on Friday, January 14, we are happy to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement with the County to resolve the Unfair Labor Practice charge we brought because the County unilaterally made us return to work without bargaining. As you might know, the Oregon State Employment […]

Marion County

Your bargaining team has come to a tentative agreement (TA)! Here is a summary of that agreement: Article 4—Hours of Work Section 3: Housekeeping (removed reference to 7.5 hour workdays not currently in use) Section 6: guarantees that employee requests to flex normal work hours within the work week will not be arbitrarily denied. Article 6—Holidays […]

SEIU 503's 2022 Election Candidate Endorsement Process

As the 2022 election cycle begins to heat up, we’d like to share information on SEIU 503’s endorsement process. For our union of 72,000 Oregon workers, the outcomes of this year’s races will have immense importance to our members. Electing pro-worker champions is essential to our ability to do our jobs safely with fair compensation […]

SEIU Local 503 Letter to Katy Coba

On January 18th, SEIU Local 503 Executive Director, Melissa Unger, sent a letter to Oregon’s Chief Operating Officer and DAS Director, Katy Coba, regarding concerns we have heard from members and suggestions we have to make policies more consistent from agency to agency and also to recognize the different ways the Covid-19 surge is impacting […]

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2022

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) Day will be celebrated by workers across the state of Oregon today, Monday, January 17th, 2022. As labor union members and specifically those in the African-American community, we have not lost sight of our history and sacrifices in this country. Our African American (AFRAM) Caucus celebrates the contributions our […]

For your info! 2022 ODHS Payroll Calendar for Homecare Workers, pay increase dates, what to do about late pay etc!

Raises  We won pay increases in our new contract, so that means that eligible workers received a pay increase effective January 2022. Click here to access the latest payroll calendar for homecare workers. In every contract, our union fights to raise our wages because we believe that care jobs should be good jobs. This contract […]

The Higher Ed Contract Has Been Ratified!

We are happy to announce that the union ratification process is complete, and the new Higher Ed contract has been ratified! This win was made possible by Higher Ed union members like you who shared their thoughts in bargaining surveys, signed petitions, attended virtual meetings, and finally, cast their votes in support of this new […]

Member Spotlight: Stephanie Prentiss

Stephanie is a Revenue Agent in Student Services at the University of Oregon. Stephanie is incredibly compassionate and an exceptionally fierce defender of workers rights. When it comes to qualities that make an outstanding Union member, it doesn’t get much better than that. In her 20 years of working at the University of Oregon, she […]

Homecare Council demands fix to payroll problems, DHS Director promises to prioritize solutions

Your member-elected Homecare Council submitted a letter to DHS Director Fariboz Pakseresht on Friday demanding his direct involvement in fixing the ongoing payroll issues in the Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) Program.  Director Pakseresht responded today to set up a meeting and has promised to make this a priority in the new year.   Note: The issues in this article impact homecare workers and personal […]

Happy Holidays from SEIU 503!

Season’s greetings from SEIU Local 503! What a year we’ve had. 2021 was a whirlwind of victories and setbacks. Together we raised wages, grew the size of our union, and built power! At the same time we dealt with an ongoing pandemic, bad bosses, and issues that divided our membership. Through it all, we are […]

Letter From Leadership: Despite Challenges The Future Is Bright For Our Union

by Melissa Unger and Mike Powers    In 2018 we worked with a group of 300 SEIU 503 leaders to produce a five-year plan. Our goals were to grow our union, raise the bar in every program or organization we represent, and improve the lives of all Oregonians. No biggie.   The central framing of the plan […]

2021 Retrospective: Workers seized the moment, but we have a long way to go.

“When they started dying, that was so hard.” Felipa Rojas De Torres is a Certified Nursing Assistant at a nursing home in Salem. When the pandemic hit, her facility was thrown into a crisis that continues to this day.     “We were short staffed before COVID, so when people had to quarantine, there was […]

Oregon Care Partners launches pre-service training for adult foster homes, assisted living and residential care communities.

Pre-Service Infection Prevention & Control for Community-Based Care Download the flyer. This free online class from Oregon Care Partners is approved by Oregon DHS/SOQ and meets the pre-service infectious disease prevention training requirements for Assisted Living and Residential Care communities.. Communities are required to have all staff trained, as described by OAR 411-054-0070, by July 1, […]

Homecare workers file grievance over DHS mishandling of hazard payments

Homecare workers represented by SEIU 503 filed a contract grievance yesterday over The Oregon Department of Human Services’ mishandling of hazard payments.   Here’s what you need to know.   Homecare workers fought for and won hazard pay in their latest contract with DHS to recognize workers who provided care during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.  […]

Member Spotlight: Sergio Osorio

Sergio Osorio is a personal support worker in Fairview, Oregon. But first and foremost, he is a family man. And if you ask him, he’ll tell you that his family includes his wife Lupe, his three adult children…and his union. It was Sergio’s desire to provide the best care for his family that led him […]

University workers reach a deal on new contract!

This 5-year deal includes guarantees on our healthcare and steps, cost of living increases, pandemic recognition pay and more!    Last week, your member-elected bargaining team reached a tentative agreement with management on a new contract. We’re excited to share the details! First, we have to congratulate everyone in our union for the wins we […]

Member Spotlight: Aaron Arnston

Aaron is a Transportation Services Representative at the DMV in Bend, Oregon.  Aaron is the kind of union member that reminds even the most seasoned of us how meaningful true solidarity is. As Chief Steward of the DMV in Bend, Oregon, Aaron experienced firsthand how challenging it can be as an essential, in-person State worker. […]

Questions about Homecare/PSW Hazard Pay?

The State didn’t see fit to compensate workers for the additional risks we took on during the COVID-19 pandemic. That wasn’t right. So, during the 2021 bargaining process our team negotiated contract language that gives qualifying workers additional compensation in recognition of the increased hazardous working conditions that we experienced during the pandemic. Because of […]

Higher Ed Members Reach Tentative Agreement!

We’re excited to announce that due to the hard work of SEIU 503 members and the dedication of the Higher Ed Bargaining Team, we reached a Tentative Agreement with the Universities today! Read on for a few highlights of what we won, and read the full Tentative Agreement here. This Tentative Agreement and the raises […]

Hazard Pay! Some extra $$ coming your way.

The State didn’t see fit to compensate workers for the additional risks we took on during the COVID-19 pandemic. That wasn’t right. So, during the 2021 bargaining process our team negotiated contract language that gives qualifying workers additional compensation in recognition of the increased hazardous working conditions that we experienced during the pandemic.  Who qualifies? […]

Pandemic Recognition Payment Timeline Update

We know many workers will receive their pandemic recognition pay by Dec 1st, but some agencies (ODHS and DOJ are two we know of) are issuing most payments on December 15th. If you’re unsure how to find out if you will receive it, you should be able to see it on your paystub issued last […]

Alvord Taylor

City of Springfield

Parry Center for Children

Comprehensive Options for Drug Abuse (CODA)

City of Pendleton Employees Assoc.

Oregon Cascade West Council of Governments (OCWCG)

City of Wilsonville

Wallowa County Roads Dept.

City of Cannon Beach

City of The Dalles Employees Assoc.

Lane Council of Governments (LCOG)

Education Northwest

The Child Center

Oregon Supported Living Program (OSLP)

Adult Foster Homes

Bureau of Labor & Industries (BOLI)

Basin Transit Service (BTS)

Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV)

Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV)

Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation

Oregon Dept. of Transportation (ODOT)

Coos Bay/ North Bend Water Board

Water Resources (including OWEB)

Department of Forestry

Department of Agriculture

Baker County Employees

Central Oregon Irrigation District (COID)

Commission for the Blind

Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC)

Oregon Department of Education

Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) and Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC)

Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB)

State Library

Cascade Aids Project (CAP)

Jackson County Employee Assoc. (JCEA)

Josephine County Public Works

Employment

Native American Heritage Month: An Incomplete Timeline

We’d like to thank Indigenous People’s Caucus Co-Chair Paula Pena for leading the effort to compile this timeline. November 19, 2021: The U.S. Senate unanimously approved the nomination of Charles “Chuck” Sams III as National Park Service director, which will make him the first Native American to lead the agency. May 28, 2021: Evidence of […]

Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)

Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS)

Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) Central / Parole

Pendleton Cottage (SDSRTF)

Oregon State Hospital (OSH)

Linn County Employees

Health, Licensing Boards, and Commissions

Marion County Employees Association (MCEA)

Veteran's Affairs

Department of Human Services / Oregon Health Authority (DHS/OHA)

Local 200 is a statewide local of members in the Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Health Authority (non-institutions). Members of Local 200 also belong to a secondary sub-local based on their office or region. The regional sub-locals are numbered 201-220. Each member votes for both the statewide officer positions and the positions for […]

City of Tigard

City of Beaverton

Treasury Department

Department of Revenue (DOR)

Portland Public School Employees (PPS)

Department of Justice (DOJ)

Department of Administrative Service (DAS)

Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI)

Oregon Dept of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)

Oregon Housing & Community Services (OHCS)

Homecare

Addus

Nursing Homes

Child Care

Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT)

Portland State University (PSU)

University of Oregon (UO)

Southern Oregon University (SOU)

Oregon State University (OSU)

Western Oregon University (WOU)

Eastern Oregon University (EOU)

Retiree Local

Sub-Local Elections Info-- Local

Sub-Local Elections Info

72,000 people. 700 elected leaders. All working together for better wages and benefits, a voice on the job, and to grow our union. SEIU 503 is a democratic, member-run union. Every two years, we elect more than 700 leaders to a variety of positions, such as the Board of Directors, sub local officers, and statewide […]

Marathon Week of Higher Ed Bargaining!

Our team spent four very long days last week at Portland State University bargaining with management, working to win the best contract possible that recognizes how essential we all are to keeping the universities working. You’ll see below that management’s official position at the bargaining table is completely unacceptable. We’ve made our priorities clear. We […]

Pandemic Recognition Pay (Hazard Pay) Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pandemic Recognition Pay?  During the 2021 bargaining process, our team negotiated contract language that gives qualifying state workers additional compensation in recognition of the increased hazardous working conditions that some experienced during the pandemic. This was referred to as Hazard Pay at times during the bargaining campaign.  Who qualifies for Pandemic Recognition Pay? […]

The votes are in! We have a new contract!

Hazard pay, wage increases, and more! The votes have been tallied and it’s official! Homecare and personal support workers have ratified a new contract with the State, with an overwhelming 99% of voters saying YES. Read the details: seiu503.org/care2021

Parry Center Reaches Contract Settlement

In a big win for members last week, the Parry Center reached agreement on a Successor Contract! This was not an easy fight, but the team did great work at keeping the employer from derailing progress at the table, and at organizing workers to show up at every single bargaining session. These actions pushed management […]

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COVID-19 Stabilization Grant opportunity for childcare workers

License-exempt child care providers who faced financial hardship related to COVID-19 may be eligible to apply for a stabilization grant. The grant is being offered through the Early Learning Division. Providers can apply online at https://oregonearlylearning.com/child-care-stabilization-grants. Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) license-exempt providers are eligible if they meet the criteria below: Be an existing child […]

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Marion County Workers win over Unfair Labor Practices!

In September, SEIU 503 filed an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) with the Employment Relations Board (ERB) for Marion County refusing to bargain with us over the forced return to in-person work. This decision was a mandatory subject of bargaining and our goal was to ensure that this transition was not rushed and that workers were […]

What to do if you don't get paid.

This article is for Homecare workers and Personal Care Attendants in the Aging and People with Disabilities Program. Personal Support Workers use a different payroll system.  The rollout of the state’s new timekeeper system (OR PTC DCI) for homecare workers and PCAs in the APD program continues to be a problem.   While the system is […]

Today we recognize Native American Heritage Month

Before reading this post, we encourage you to read our virtual land acknowledgement.  The following statement is from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Native American Heritage Month 2021: November is Native American Heritage Month, and we are excited to lift up the contributions of SEIU 503 members and staff […]

Trick or Treat: What Universities Want vs. What Higher Ed Workers Need

It’s frightening to think what the world would be like if workers didn’t have a voice in the issues that affect them. As we progress further into bargaining, let’s take a spooky peek into the tricks universities would like to offer Higher Ed workers in the new contract, and the treats we think you deserve. […]

Union response to Vaccine Status Data Breach

Union response to Vaccine Status Data Breach As you know, on the evening of Monday, October 18th, the State sent an unredacted file with information containing the vaccine and exception status for thousands of state workers to two media outlets. While the information hasn’t been made public, we knew we needed to take quick, clear action to […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Update, October 27

Last week on October 21 and 22, our SEIU Higher Ed Bargaining Team met with management for our third negotiation session, where both teams offered multiple proposals. During this session, Management proposed the following takeaways to our rights as a union and as workers: Removal of layoff protections: “Temporary interruptions of employment,” where there is no […]

Addus workers win 23% pay increase!

Yes, you read that correctly. Yesterday, our member-elected SEIU 503 Addus bargaining team settled a historic contract that will increase the starting pay from $13.80 to $17.00 by next September, a 23% increase over the next 11 months. Despite the Addus company receiving huge increases in the hourly medicaid reimbursement rate, our bargaining team had […]

We've got a deal! Addus Workers win a 23% pay increase!

Yes, you read that correctly. Yesterday, our member-elected SEIU 503 Addus bargaining team settled a historic contract that will increase the starting pay from $13.80 to $17.00 by next September, a 23% increase over the next 11 months. Despite the Addus company receiving huge increases in the hourly medicaid reimbursement rate, our bargaining team had […]

We've got a deal! Addus workers win 23% pay increase!

Yes, you read that correctly. Yesterday, our member-elected SEIU 503 Addus bargaining team settled a historic contract that will increase the starting pay from $13.80 to $17.00 by next September, a 23% increase over the next 11 months. Despite the Addus company receiving huge increases in the hourly medicaid reimbursement rate, our bargaining team had […]

Tentative Agreement at Prestige!

Tentative Agreement at Dakavia! Thanks to all our solidarity at all three union Dakavia nursing homes, our bargaining reached a tentative agreement with Dakavia! Once ratified by membership, this contract will set one of the highest standards in Oregon for nursing home wages, offer a real path to better healthcare, and keep our union united […]

PEBB open enrollment!

October is here and that means now is your chance to enroll in PEBB benefits as well as SEIU 503 Membership Advantages like legal insurance, additional life insurance, and short term disability insurance. Everyone who gets healthcare through PEBB must enroll by October 31, even if you enrolled last year. Check out the different plans […]

State vaccine data mistake and union response

On October 18, the Department of Administrative Services mistakenly sent an unredacted spreadsheet that contained employee vaccination status information to The Oregonian and The Statesman Journal. Information privacy was a big concern that we heard from members, which is why we negotiated language about privacy into our agreement with the State. This action was a […]

Higher Education Bargaining Update, October 8th 2021

We’ve just wrapped up our second bargaining session. While this session was productive in that we were able to get many of our proposals on the table, we were disappointed to see management propose several takeaways. The takeaways they proposed would erode our rights as union members, and take away our ability to raise concerns […]

Child care workers reach deal on a new contract!

We’ve reached a Tentative Agreement with the state and now it’s time to vote on our new contract, which includes rate increases of 8% for the majority of providers, paid online training,  backpay for providers who weren’t compensated for Orientations during the pandemic, and more! Contract Highlights Rate increases starting at 5.3%, with the vast […]

Teletown hall to discuss our new contract!

Homecare and Personal Support Workers have a new contract. We hosted a teletown hall event today to discuss the new contract and answer your questions. If you missed it, check out the recordings below. English   Español   русский   Tiếng Việt   广东话

Marion County Workers, Take Action!

This November let’s get #SeriousOnSafety! As essential workers, we have put ourselves on the line again and again for Marion County, but we still are not respected, protected, or fairly compensated by the Marion County Board of Commissioners. They count on our understanding, our compliance, and our inaction to continue ignoring our needs and demands. […]

SEIU 503 Hispanic Heritage Month Member Spotlight: Ivonne Rivero

Ivonne Rivero became an SEIU 503 homecare member in 2018 and has emerged as one of our union’s strongest and most active member leaders. Ivonne serves on the SEIU 503 Board of Directors and Oregon Homecare Commission, Co-Chairs our Latinx Caucus and Women’s Council, belongs to our Women of Color Caucus and Health Care for […]

Adult Foster Homes reach an agreement on a new contract!

We have a deal on our new contract!  After months of negotiation meetings with the state, your bargaining team reached a Tentative Agreement on our 2021-2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement, representing a $15 million investment in the essential work we do and recognition of the respect we deserve.  Here are the quick highlights: COVID 19 Hazard […]

Steward Academy 220

Steward Academy (220)  Overview  Being a new steward can be intimidating, but with support all of us can learn to be effective stewards. State Worker Contract Specialists created this program so we can learn from each other, build relationships and get you plugged in and know how to get more involved.  You will learn how […]

Tentative Agreement at EmpRes!

Tentative Agreement at EmpRes! The Nursing Home Council bargaining team has reached a tentative agreement with EmpRes! When ratified by the membership, this contract sets one of the highest standards in the nation for wages, offers a real path to better healthcare, and recognizes the value and dignity of ALL employees. Highlights of our Tentative […]

Tentative Agreement at Avalon!

Tentative Agreement at Avalon! The Nursing Home Council bargaining team has reached a tentative agreement with Avalon! When ratified by the membership, this contract sets one of the highest standards in the nation for wages, offers a real path to better healthcare, and recognizes the value and dignity of ALL employees. Highlights of our Tentative […]

Tentative Agreement at Prestige!

Tentative Agreement at Prestige! The Nursing Home Council bargaining team has reached a tentative agreement with Prestige! When ratified by the membership, this contract sets one of the highest standards in the nation for wages, offers a real path to better healthcare, and recognizes the value and dignity of ALL employees. Highlights of our Tentative […]

2021 CAPE Candidate Statements

Alice Redding – CAPE Region 1; Senate District 16 Hello, my name is Alice Redding. I am a homecare worker. I have been a homecare worker for 21 years. I am running for the CAPE Council, District 1, Senate district 16. I have dedicatedly served on the CAPE Council for 14 years. I was a […]

2021 CAPE Candidates by Region

CAPE Region 1:  (Douglas County; Central to North Coast; Columbia River areas) 7 candidates Gary Fletcher – CAPE Region 1; Senate District 1  (Douglas County) Joy Vegar – CAPE Region 1; Senate District 5  (Coos County) Alice Redding – CAPE Region 1; Senate District 16  (Columbia County) Anna Young – CAPE Region 1; Senate District […]

We have a deal: Homecare and personal support workers win $2,000 hazard pay checks and more!

We have a deal: Homecare and personal support workers win $2,000 hazard pay checks and more!

We have a deal with management on a new contract! We have a deal with management on a new contract! This agreement represents a $150 million investment into the essential work we do, and a recognition of the respect we deserve as care providers. It’s the culmination of two years of hard work, starting with […]

Vaccine Mandate Discipline Training 116

Vaccine Mandate Discipline Training (116) Overview This training will familiarize stewards with two tools created to help them navigate situations related to the COVID vaccine mandates, and the Hazard Payments that State Workers won in bargaining.  The Guides will cover the context for the employer policy requiring either vaccination or an exception, how that is something we […]

Membership Advantages Open Enrollment

By joining and maintaining your membership with SEIU Local 503, the following benefits are available to you. Membership Advantages Open Enrollment October 1, 2021 through October 31, 2021 Now is the time to enroll in legal insurance, additional life insurance, short term disability insurance,  and discounted Life Flight Network membership for coverage beginning January 1, […]

Free caregiver education resources through Oregon Care Partners

Oregon Care Partners is a free, high-quality caregiver education resource. Since 2014, Oregon Care Partners has helped caregivers build the knowledge and skills needed to improve the quality of life of older adults and people living with Alzheimer’s in Oregon. Standardized, evidence-based curriculum is accessible to anyone living or working in Oregon at no cost […]

SEIU 503 Emerges as a National Leader on Climate

A blog post from SEIU 503 President Mike Powers: At SEIU 503, our mission is to build a just and vibrant society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where all people can provide for themselves and their families. In recent years our work has been increasingly intertwined with climate change, as we […]

2021 Higher Education Zoom Background Images

We’ve all been in a lot more Zoom meetings, Google Hangouts, Skypes, or other virtual meeting software. That doesn’t mean you can’t show your union pride and rep the bargaining campaign just like you can in person. Click either of the images below to go to the full-sized version, then right-click on desktop or hold […]

Bargaining Update, September 21

September 23rd and 24th will be our first negotiation session with management. Our union bargaining team, which includes elected representatives from each university, will meet with management to lay out SEIU members’ priorities for these negotiations and begin making proposals for changes to our contract.​​​​ We’ve identified the following bargaining priorities that will guide our […]

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SEIU members reach agreement with State on Vaccine Mandate implementation

SEIU members reach agreement with State on Vaccine Mandate implementation. When Governor Brown issued a vaccine mandate to State employees, our union immediately issued a demand to bargain because we knew that workers’ voices needed to be part of the process. Through bargaining surveys, tele-town halls, and numerous conversations with members across the state, we […]

News Clip: SEIU member lost his job while trying to help his kids. He won it back through arbitration.

By Lauren Bishop of the Daily Courier After COVID-19 upended the world, one Josephine County man was fired from his job after staying home to help his children get through school. Then his union got involved and got him his job back. David Astry, president of the local chapter of SEIU 503, the state’s largest […]

Landmark win on Late Pay; Bargaining Team Close to Agreement on Full Contract.

Don’t miss this week’s call to action! But first, we’ve got big news… Hundreds of SEIU 503 members took action last week to end late pay. We are thrilled to announce that the State heard you and they made a major change to address this issue. Starting now, DHS will now process paychecks every day […]

September Selfie Action

As we enter the final stretch, workers across the state are speaking out about the need for a fair contract that respects us, protects us, and pays us for the essential work we do. We’ve seen what our voices can do, and right now is the most important time to make our voices heard. Will […]

DHS/OHA Sublocal 200 Bylaws

Your ODHS/OHA Local Executive has ratified updates to the sublocal bylaws. The Bylaws are included below.

Call-in Numbers for 2021 Stewards Conference

9:30 AM Plenary Session 1 (669) 900 6833 Meeting ID: 983 1525 9463 Passcode: 539428 Workshops Workshop 1: Steward Selfcare – Dial: 1 (669) 900 6833 | Meeting ID: 942 3253 5418 | Passcode: 812834 Workshop 2: Grievances & Settlements Part 1 – Dial: 1 (669) 900 6833 | Meeting ID: 995 4308 1422 | […]

Hispanic Heritage Month 2021

Español abajo The following statement is from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Hispanic Heritage Month 2021: Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 and we are excited to lift up the contributions of SEIU 503 members and staff in coordination with our Latinx Caucus.  Latinx people, immigrants, […]

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Welcome to the 2021 Stewards Virtual Conference!

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Nursing Home SNF Bargaining Update 9/6/2021

Overworked, Essential, and Underpaid We started bargaining at Prestige, EmpRes, Dakavia, and Avalon 5 weeks ago. Our main priorities at the table are Higher Pay, Improved Staffing, and Health Care. Our union team has proposed a statewide wage scale that boosts workers up to meet the Avamere wage scale for ALL job classes, includes real […]

Go Live Support Guide for Electronic Vouchers (OR PTC DCI)

The Go Live Support Guides from DHS are designed to help you get started with the new electronic voucher system, called OR PTC DCI. Below you can find the guides in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, Somali, Korean, Romanian and Arabic.

Electronic vouchers (OR PTC DCI) go live on September 12

The Provider Time Capture project, or OR PTCI DCI, is a new way to track hours and get paid. It will replace the paper voucher system that homecare workers in the Adults and People with Disabilities Program (APD) and personal care attendants are currently using. The program will go live on September 12, 2021. Make […]

Addus workers purple up, fight for better wages.

We know care is essential. That means caregiving jobs need to be good jobs with a living wage that can support a family. But SEIU 503 members at Addus Homecare earn wages well below other union members. It’s not right. Sign the petition: Demand Addus pay a living wage! This week, Addus workers are wearing […]

Report Problems with E-Vouchers (OR PTC DCI)

Use this page to report problems with the Oregon Department of Human Services’ new electronic timekeeper system (OR PTC DCI). Important: This is not the place to get help with the new system. Reporting problems to SEIU 503 will enable us to push DHS to do better, but you also need the system to work […]

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Issue Organizing 202

Grievances 201

This training will cover some of the primary aspects once you’ve assessed there is a contract violation. From filling out a grievance form, to preparing for and having the meetings, to escalating the grievance to ultimately settling, this training is intended to give you a toolbox to prepared you to win grievances. 

Disciplinary Investigations 104

Disciplinary Investigations (104) Overview This training covers part of the process from the time a worker comes to you as a steward with discipline, through your investigation, and ultimately your decision whether a just cause grievance is appropriate.  Should have completed Representation (102) and The Contract (103) or equivalent experience prior to this training.  Grievances […]

The Contract 103

Being comfortable navigating the Union contract is an essential skill and tool in every steward and members tool box.  This training is a guided practice session where you learn about how the contract is structured (article vs Letter of agreements), who is represented in your agreement, and what applies to who.  It also covers some […]

Representation 102

Representation (102)  Overview  Representing coworkers is a core function of being a worksite-based steward and for a lot of workers the first time they have interacted with the Union.  This course will cover steward rights and responsibilities, the basics of Weingarten and Garrity rights, investigatory interviews, professional workplace complaints, labor and employment law basics, and […]

Code of Conduct 101

This is an entry level class for participating in union spaces and learning about how we interact and treat each other. This training is offered regularly.  Check the Event Calendar to sign up. CODE OF CONDUCT  Our Union implemented a Code of Conduct for Union meetings that includes a reporting mechanism to help when the […]

Steward Orientation 100

Bargaining Update: Inching closer to a landmark agreement

  Sep 8, 2021 Your bargaining team met with the state again this week and we made steady progress toward what is shaping up to be a landmark agreement with the State. Our priorities were to keep pushing on key issues like wages, steps (an industry term for automatic annual pay increases), and hazard pay. […]

Labor Day Statement from SEIU 503

The following is a Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and SEIU 503 President Mike Powers on Labor Day Weekend:  Over the past year SEIU 503 members working in public services, homecare, nursing homes, universities and hundreds of other jobs in Oregon have carried a unified message: I Am Essential. This Labor Day, […]

Late Pay Facebook Action

Thank you for joining our Facebook Action on Late Pay. The goal of this action is to force the Department of Human Services to negotiate with us on the issue of late pay. You will need a Facebook account to participate in this action. After years of dealing with late and/or inaccurate pay, ENOUGH IS […]

Labor Day Digital Action - Respect, Protect and Pay Homecare Workers!

Thank you for joining our 2021 Labor Day Digital Action. The goal of this event will be to force the Oregon Homecare Commission to negotiate with us on the issue of late pay. You will get an email on Monday, September 6 at 8 AM with additional instructions on how to take action. In the […]

Bargaining Update: Pushing forward on better pay

Your bargaining team met with the State on Tuesday, and this meeting was different. When we sat down at the table we were joined by the more than 1,900 SEIU 503 members who took time last week to send a message to DHS, demanding better pay, holiday pay, PTO and more.  To everyone who supported […]

Update on State Worker Vaccine Mandates and Impact Bargaining

Updated as of 9/1/21 This is a challenging time for State workers across Oregon. Regardless of vaccination status, workers are concerned about what the vaccine mandate will mean for them and their families. As your union, we are using this impact bargaining process to our members’ fullest advantage. We couldn’t do this without your involvement, […]

Nursing Home SNF Bargaining Update 8/30/2021

Bargaining continues The Union bargaining team made up of worker-leaders from Avalon, Dakavia, Prestige, Empres, and Avamere, meets with employers to continue bargaining this week. Wages for non-direct care staff such as housekeepers and dietary workers remain a key issue in four of the chains, as well as staffing and union rights. These issues are […]

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Homecare/PSW Bargaining Update, August 24: State responds to our economic proposal 

In-home caregiving is one of the fastest growing jobs in the country. With more than a million new caregivers expected to come into the industry over the next few years, it is vital that these jobs pay a living wage. That’s why our top priority in bargaining this year is increasing pay. You’ve heard us […]

Survey finds strong feelings, slight support for vaccine mandate with protections for people who can’t get the jab.

Governor Kate Brown issued a vaccine mandate for State employees on August 10. Our union immediately issued a demand to bargain over the impact of the mandate and began surveying the membership to determine our priorities at the bargaining table.  The results are in and they show that a slim majority of SEIU 503 members […]

Andrea's Story

My name is Andrea Kennedy-Smith and I have worked as a Paralegal for Child Welfare for the last 15 years, and been a very active steward and member leader. I too am concerned about the vaccine mandates from employers. Our bargaining team met last week over the vaccine mandate and are talking about how to […]

Alexander's Story

My name is Alexander, and I work at the East County Family Service Center in Portland, in Child Welfare. I have worked in Child Welfare for almost two years, and I have been a member of SEIU for just as long. I chose to receive the Covid-19 vaccine earlier this year and support the vaccine […]

Nursing Home SNF Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

New vaccine mandates for healthcare, nursing home and public school employees

Governor Kate Brown announced a new rule today requiring all healthcare workers, nursing home workers, and public school employees to be fully vaccinated by October 18. This follows an announcement on Wednesday from President Joe Biden directing all nursing homes in the country to require staff get the COVID-19 vaccine. The Governor’s directive will impact […]

August 17 Homecare Bargaining Update: Union steps in to save the electronic timekeeper (PTC) rollout!

This week our member-elected bargaining team made big progress, reaching an agreement to protect workers when DHS introduces a new electronic timekeeper (PTC) system next month, improving language on worker safety, and making late pay less likely. As we negotiate our new contract, our key issues are the economic proposals, which include raises, hazard pay, […]

Our Voice Matters

By Mike Powers    On July 28 the CEO of Google, Sundar Pichai, announced a vaccine mandate for all Google employees. If you read the announcement, you’ll notice that there is no mention of worker input, bargaining, or even an option for workers to provide feedback. The policy was cooked up by management and implemented […]

What is Ranked Choice Voting?

What is Ranked Choice Voting? Ranked-choice voting (RCV) is a voting method which allows voters to rank candidates by preference. Instead of the highest vote-getter winning an election by a plurality (even if they did not receive a majority of the votes), voters can mark their first-choice candidate, their second choice, their third, and so […]

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Child Care: Propose amendment to Local 96 bylaws

SEIU 503 Request for Information Form

NEW Vaccine Mandate Agreement for University Employees

We’re excited to announce that, as of Wednesday August 4, we have reached an agreement on the vaccine mandates proposed by university administration. The agreement covers all seven universities in our union. This new Agreement addresses concerns that were highlighted by our membership through the Covid survey earlier this Summer. ​​​​​Here’s what we won in our […]

AFH: Proposed amendments to Local 858's Bylaws

2021.08.09 858 AFH Bylaws Amendments Approved by Rules Committee

Statement on Vaccine Mandate for State Employees

The following is a statement from Melissa Unger, Executive Director and Mike Powers, President of SEIU 503 on the vaccine mandate covering State employees:  SEIU 503’s goal is to make the COVID-19 vaccine accessible to everyone so we can end this global pandemic.  We believe everyone should get the vaccine, and SEIU 503 members have […]

Nursing Home SNF Bargaining Update 8/5/2021

Bargaining begins: United for a strong contract For the first time in the history of the Nursing Home Alliance, all represented nursing home chains came to the table at the same time, to win a stronger contract together than we could on our own. Our union bargaining team has put together a comprehensive package of […]

Enhanced Vision Benefits and more! Homecare and personal support workers: Carewell SEIU 503 is here to provide you the support you need!

In our conversations with care providers, we’ve heard a lot of you say that out-of-pocket costs are often a barrier to getting dental care or vision services. We heard you, and we’re introducing improvements to your dental and vision benefits that will make those services more affordable for the rest of this year. Now is […]

August 3 Bargaining Update: No Movement on Wages, Progress on Safety and Representation  

Last week, your member-elected bargaining team put forward our demands for raises, hazard pay and a step system that would automatically increase pay as workers gained more experience on the job. The State has not responded to our proposals on these core issues, but we did make progress this week on worker safety and union […]

NEW Vaccine Mandate Agreement!

We’re excited to announce that, as of Wednesday August 4, we have reached an agreement on vaccine mandates that cover all seven universities. This new Agreement addresses concerns that were highlighted by our membership through the Covid survey earlier this Summer. ​​​​​Here’s what we won in our new Vaccine Mandate Agreement Allows workers to be […]

Governor Kate Brown Announces Vaccine & Testing Policy

On August 4 Kate Brown announced an administrative rule that will require all healthcare workers to either get a COVID-19 vaccine or take regular COVID-19 tests. Here’s what you need to know.  Who does this rule apply to? This will impact nursing home workers, assisted living facilities, adult foster homes, and non-profits providing healthcare, counseling […]

State Ratification Voting for People With Visual Impairment

In our ongoing effort to make our union accessible to every member, we are pleased to offer an accessible voting process for people with visual impairments. Please download this PDF ballot and follow the instructions for voting by August 21.

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Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) 2021 Bargaining

In 2021, OCWCOG employees are bargaining a new contract. Check this space for updated information related to bargaining and union actions. Take action to support the campaign Engage with other SEIU Local 503 members by liking our Facebook page! Find other ways to support your co-workers in winning a strong contract, including social media posts, […]

What the PERS Board decision to reduce assumed rate of return means for you.

What’s did the PERS board do? And how does it impact me? The PERS Board voted on July 24 to reduce the assumed rate of return for the pension fund, a decision that will increase required contributions to the fund from public employers and reduce benefits for some employees who have yet to retire. Who […]

Resources

Homecare Statewide Hazard Pay Actions

On Tuesday, July 27 our Homecare Bargaining team met with the State and presented our proposals to win hazard pay, paid time-off, wage increases and establish a wage scale. These economic proposals are among the top priorities in bargaining this year. Homecare workers are essential and it is time the state recognizes the imperative work […]

Homecare bargaining update: It’s time to talk money. 

Bargaining Update for July 27, 2021: It’s time to talk money.  On Tuesday, July 27 our homecare bargaining team met with the State and presented our proposals to win hazard pay, paid time-off, wage increases and establishing a wage scale.  A proper wage scale is when you get an automatic pay increase every year, which […]

CODA Workers Win in Tentative Agreement!

This year, CODA (Comprehensive Options for Drug Abuse) workers set out to renegotiate their contract. CODA’s outpatient and inpatient treatment sites in the Portland metro area are one of our community’s best assets for Oregonians in recovery, but despite the essential services that CODA workers provide, our members there weren’t being paid a living wage, […]

SEIU 503 Hot Weather Resources

We are a month removed from a significant weather event when a “heat dome” hovered over our state, bringing record temperatures and taking 116 lives. Climate change means we will experience more intense and frequent severe weather. We’re compiling resources to help keep our members, families, and communities safe in high temperatures. Please feel free […]

ALF Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Bargaining team is composed of members like you who work in represented Assisted Living Facilities. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

SEIU 503 Grievance Form

Download Fillable Grievance Form

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SEIU 503 Wildfire Resources

After a devastating 2020 wildfire season that brought the direct impacts of climate change to many communities in Oregon, 2021 is off to an ominous start. Last year, SEIU 503 members worked to keep each other safe and to take care of people who were affected by wildfires. We reached agreements with employers, communicated timely […]

Monthly Facebook Live Update

Every month, leaders in our union meet on Facebook live to provide members with updates on the latest news and events around SEIU 503. Follow us on Facebook so you don’t miss these important updates. July 22, 2021

2021 CAPE Election Timeline

July 31 – Deadline to contribute to be eligible to run for CAPE Council and/or vote in the upcoming election August 10 – Nominations open  September 10 – Nominations close September 15 – Candidate statement submission deadline  October 1 – Ballots mailed out October 22 – Ballot deadline for return October 31 – Election results […]

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SEIU State Bargaining Team Wins Tentative Agreement for State Workers

We’re thrilled to share that as of July 16th, the contract was settled with big victories for State workers! Scroll down for highlights and additional details. Throughout a global pandemic and wildfires that ravaged our state, State workers upended their lives and sacrificed their personal safety to keep Oregon safe and running. They have proven […]

Human Services Coalition reaches Tentative Agreement!

We are excited to share that a Tentative Agreement (TA) has been reached for the Human Services Coalition-specific sections of the 2021-2023 Union contract; these are the Union rights and protections that apply specifically to ODHS, OHA, and OED. A comprehensive document describing every change, large and small, contained in the TA is forthcoming. In […]

Columbia Sportswear Discount for SEIU 503 Members

SEIU Local 503 has exclusive access to the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store from July 23rd – August 15th ! Items are marked with EMPLOYEE pricing (Up to 50% off regular retail pricing). All the latest product from the Columbia Sportswear Company family (SOREL, Mountain Hardwear, prAna, and of course Columbia Sportswear). WHAT TO BRING TO ACCESS […]

Take action to protect workers from harassment and abuse!

Many homecare and personal support workers experience unsafe working conditions. We are calling on DHS to protect workers by informing them if there is a history of harassment or abuse before they take on a new consumer. Please sign the petition below to support this campaign.

COVID-19 Resources For Union Members

Quick Links Where to get the vaccine COVID info and resources for your job Unemployment & Services OSHA rules SEIU 503 Membership Advantages Childcare Anti-Asian Hate & COVID Should you get the COVID-19 vaccine? Yes. In Oregon, more than 2 million people have been safely vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Vaccines are free and effective at […]

SEIU State Bargaining Team Wins Tentative Agreement for State Workers!

This post covers the new contract agreement for State employees. We’re thrilled to share that as of July 16th, the contract was settled with big victories for State workers! Scroll down for highlights and additional details, and join the conversation in the SEIU Local 503 State Employee Facebook group! Throughout a global pandemic and wildfires […]

采取行动保护工人免受骚扰和虐待！

许多家庭护理和个人支持工作者都经历过不安全的工作条件。我们呼吁国土安全部通过在员工接受新消费者之前通知他们是否有骚扰或虐待的历史来保护他们。请在下面的请愿书上签名以支持这项运动。 如果您在工作中遇到骚扰或虐待，请分享您的故事。我们的谈判团队可以使用您的故事向俄勒冈州表明这确实在发生。

Hãy hành động để bảo vệ người lao động khỏi bị quấy rối và lạm dụng!

Nhiều nhân viên chăm sóc gia đình và hỗ trợ cá nhân gặp phải điều kiện làm việc không an toàn. Chúng tôi kêu gọi DHS bảo vệ người lao động bằng cách thông báo cho họ nếu có tiền sử quấy rối hoặc lạm dụng trước khi họ tiếp nhận một người tiêu dùng […]

ействуйте, чтобы защитить рабочих от домогательство и насилие!

Многие работники по уходу на дому и личной поддержке находятся в небезопасных условиях труда. Мы призываем DHS защищать работников, информируя их о преследованиях или жестоком обращении в прошлом, прежде чем они примут нового потребителя. Пожалуйста, подпишите петицию ниже, чтобы поддержать эту кампанию. Если вы испытали домогательства или насилию на работе, поделитесь своей историей. Наша команда […]

¡Tome medidas para proteger a los trabajadores del acoso y el abuso!

Muchos trabajadores de cuidado en el hogar y de apoyo personal experimentan condiciones de trabajo inseguras. Pedimos al DHS que proteja a los trabajadores informándoles si hay un historial de acoso o abuso antes de que contraten a un nuevo consumidor. Por favor, firme la petición a continuación para apoyar esta campaña. Si has experimentado […]

Take action to protect workers from harassment and abuse!

Many homecare and personal support workers experience unsafe working conditions. We are calling on DHS to protect workers by informing them if there is a history of harassment or abuse before they take on a new consumer. Please sign the petition below to support this campaign. If you’ve experienced harassment or abuse on the job, […]

Notice to Local 99 Members: Local 99 Bylaws Amendments Vote

Notice to Local 99 Members: The Homecare Council will review and vote on amendments to the Local 99 Bylaws at the regular Homecare Council meeting scheduled on August 28, 2021, at 1:00pm. The proposed amendments can be found here. What is Ranked Choice Voting?

Beyond Bargaining: SEIU 503 Members Moved the Needle at the Oregon Legislature

By: SEIU 503 President Mike Powers Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was a rollercoaster ride. Held remotely due to the COVID pandemic, we started with a bleak economic outlook — also due to the pandemic. Fortunately, thanks to $2.6 billion in one-time federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), our state was able to […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, July 7

Big news! We have a Tentative Agreement at the ODOT table, hard-won by the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. On June 30, the bargaining team and management reached a tentative agreement on all remaining items, including gains made […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, July 12

This update covers State worker bargaining. For information on homecare, nursing homes or other campaigns, please visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential.    Progress on Hazardous/Inclement Conditions As we’ve shared previously, we have been waiting for months for a response from the state on our various proposals around worker protections during hazardous and inclement conditions including being prepared for […]

Care is Essential!

In this moment, workers demand bold, transformative solutions to create an economy and democracy that works for all of us, no matter our race or where we’re from. Now more than ever, Congress must listen to our demands to invest in care work, good union jobs and justice for all. You can help us win […]

Drop-in Office Hours as of May 3, 2022

Welcome Back, Members! Mask Policy Masks are not required but recommended for visitors to SEIU 503 offices. Masks and hand sanitizer are available at the reception area for your convenience. Salem HQ  Walk-in hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday  Portland  Walk-in hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday  Eugene Wednesday […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, July 6

Progress Continues We continue to make progress at the bargaining table as we head into the final stages of negotiations. This past week we reached a tentative agreement on several more issues, but we are still waiting to hear from management on one of our top non-economic priority issues – making sure the state is […]

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I am essential: 2021 Contract Bargaining

State Workers Win at State Legislature

  At the beginning of 2021 thousands of State workers filled out nearly 6,000 bargaining surveys, which is the first step our union takes when negotiating a new contract. The results of the survey were loud and clear: State workers want better wages and hazard pay, and expanded telework options. In order to accomplish this […]

Nursing home workers win historic investment in long-term care

  At the beginning of 2021 thousands of nursing home workers filled out bargaining surveys, which is the first step our union takes when negotiating a new contract. The results of the survey were loud and clear: workers want better wages, better healthcare, and better staffing in long-term care facilities. In order to accomplish this […]

State Legislature Makes Historic Investment in Higher Education

  This year, the Oregon State Legislature made a historic $900 million investment into higher education. It’s the largest budget allocation for public universities in the history of the state. Now, it’s critical that we make sure this investment translates into a great contract for SEIU 503 members. Unfortunately, that’s far from guaranteed. A study released […]

SEIU 503 Members Persevere in a Historic 2021 Legislative Session

Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was truly historic. The session began with a bleak economic outlook that was buoyed by a series of improved revenue projections and a one-time infusion of $2.6 billion in federal aid. Thanks to the advocacy of SEIU members and our partners, these resources translated into historic investments in our essential public […]

2021 Oregon Legislature Invests in Communities

Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was truly historic. The session began with a bleak economic outlook that was buoyed by a series of improved revenue projections and a one-time infusion of $2.6 billion in federal aid. Thanks to the advocacy of SEIU members and our partners, these resources translated into historic investments in our essential public […]

2021 Oregon Legislature Makes Historic Investment in Higher Education

Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was truly historic. The session began with a bleak economic outlook that was buoyed by a series of improved revenue projections and a one-time infusion of $2.6 billion in federal aid. Thanks to the advocacy of SEIU members and our partners, these resources translated into historic investments in our essential public […]

2021 Oregon Legislature Invests in Care Providers

Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was truly historic. The session began with a bleak economic outlook that was buoyed by a series of improved revenue projections and a one-time infusion of $2.6 billion in federal aid. Thanks to the advocacy of SEIU members and our partners, these resources translated into historic investments in our essential public […]

2021 Oregon Legislature Invests in State Agencies

Oregon’s 2021 legislative session was truly historic. The session began with a bleak economic outlook that was buoyed by a series of improved revenue projections and a one-time infusion of $2.6 billion in federal aid. Thanks to the advocacy of SEIU members and our partners, these resources translated into historic investments in our essential public […]

Tentative Agreement for the City of Beaverton!

The City of Beaverton bargaining team voted to sign a Tentative Agreement! The TA is final after the bargaining unit members vote on it. This agreement gives us a financial boost and greatly expands support for parents and caregivers, health insurance, and education. Here a few highlights of the Tentative Agreement: A 3-year contract with […]

Homecare workers win historic investment in in-home care

  At the beginning of 2021 thousands of homecare and personal support workers filled out bargaining surveys, which is the first step our union takes when negotiating a new contract. The results of the survey were loud and clear: workers want better wages and hazard pay, but not at the expense of consumer hours. In […]

Disaster Member Relief Funds

When disaster hits our union, SEIU members are there for one another. The SEIU 503 Disaster Member Relief Fund was created during the COVID-19 crisis. Now it’s a permanent program of our union that’s in place to help people when there is a large-scale event that causes financial hardship for members of our community. During […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, June 29

Things are hot outside and at the bargaining table as we approach deadlines. Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. On June 23, the bargaining team met with management to pass back and forth […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, June 28

Legislative Session Winds Down The 2021 Legislative Session will come to an end this week. Despite challenging dynamics this has been a positive legislative session for our union. Increased resources meant that state budget writers were able to craft Agency budgets that will fund critical services and preserve jobs, rather than cutting them. Nearly every […]

What's next for hazard pay?

Whatever we call it—essential worker pay, hero pay, hazard pay, pandemic pay—we know that essential workers in our union deserve to be respected, protected and paid for the additional risks that come with working through a pandemic. But we learned this week that the State Legislature will not pass the essential worker pay proposal. Essential […]

Instructions for Checking In on Social Media

Facebook Computer: First, go to “Create Post” and then at the bottom where it says “Add to Your Post” hit the 3 dots on the right side. Then, hit “Check In” It will prompt you to search for a location. Type in “Oregon State Hospital” and click on it. Its address is 2600 Center St […]

What’s next for hazard pay?

Whatever we call it—essential worker pay, hero pay, hazard pay, pandemic pay—we know that essential workers in our union deserve to be respected, protected and paid for the additional risks that come with working through a pandemic. This week we learned that the State Legislature will not pass the essential worker pay proposal. This news […]

ODOT Bargaining Update, June 23

We are rapidly approaching the contract negotiations finish line. Modified proposals are virtually flying back and forth across the tables as the most crucial priorities for both sides become apparent. Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, June 21

We continue to make progress at the bargaining table as we head into the final stages of negotiations. This past week we reached a tentative agreement on several more issues, including one of our priority non-economic issues – expanding telework. Check out the highlights below, and read the latest on all proposals. Here are a […]

Steward Training

Stewards are a core part of our Union’s Leadership structure and the training courses on this page are intended to give you the tools and practice you need to be successful representing your coworkers and enforcing your contract. Review the series below to see which training we encourage you to take depending on what kind […]

President Biden signs bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday

President Joe Biden on Thursday signed a bill making Juneteenth, or June 19th, the country’s 12th federal holiday. Oregon’s Legislature also voted to make Juneteenth and state holiday beginning in 2022. Juneteenth  is a celebration of the emancipation of African-Americans from slavery in the U.S. and marks the date that enslaved people in Texas were given […]

Bargaining team makes progress in fourth meeting with the State

Your member-elected homecare bargaining team had it’s fourth bargaining session with the State on Tuesday, June 15th. Our team’s top priorities for our next contract include wage increases, hazard pay, protecting client hours and fixing problems with the program like late pay and poor communication from DHS. Visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential for the latest news, key issues […]

SEIU Members Win Expansion of Child Tax Credit!

In addition to bargaining contracts and representing workers when they need support, our union fights for policies that impact our lives. This year, we scored a huge win by successfully lobbying the Biden administration to boost the child tax credit as part of his American Rescue Plan package. We knew families were struggling with school […]

Mike Nearman put State Workers in danger

Longtime leader of the “Freedom” Foundation (also knows as Opt-Out Today) and recently expelled Representative of Salem, Mike Nearman, put State Workers in physical danger by coordinating the attack on the Oregon Capital building last December. You heard that right. In a year that State workers had to mask up, roll up their sleeves, and […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, March 19

We are hard at work to ensure your voice is being heard by management during the bargaining process. On Thursday we met with management to continue exchanging initial proposals. In that meeting, we presented proposals updating language around personnel records, as well as updates to union and steward rights in the workplace. Details on these […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, April 2

Your bargaining team has been hard at work on getting proposals ready to pass to management. We couldn’t have done this without your voice at the center of our discussions, through all of the key issues you helped identify in your bargaining surveys. We’ve got a long way to go to win on these key issues, […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, June 8

Slowly gaining momentum at the bargaining table We know that winning meaningful raises and protecting benefits are our members’ top priorities. We are currently waiting for a final budget from the legislature so that we can start digging into these core economic issues at the table. In the meantime, we’re working on some of our […]

Human Services Bargaining Update, March 4

Here’s the latest from the Human Services Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at DHS, OHA and The Department of Education. On February 25, the bargaining team signed three letters of agreement (LOAs) with management. Each agreement extends an existing policy. Clarification of Intent Concerning DDS Understanding & Workload Adjustment – LOA 10.1M-05-119. […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update, March 4

Negotiations have begun for our next collective bargaining agreement! The Specials Coalition table includes the following agencies: ODE, OSL, OST, DAS, Commission for the Blind, PERS, DOJ, OHCS, TSPC, DOR, DCBS, BOLI, DVA, WCB, HECC and the Licensing Boards. At our coalition table, we will be negotiating any language that is specific to this group […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, March 16

On March 10 the bargaining team met with management to continue discussions about existing Letters of Agreement and whether to continue, sunset, or roll them into the contract. Some examples of Letters of Agreement include call-back clarification and stand-by/on-call at hatcheries. You can find the entire current contract including existing Letters of Agreement through this link. We […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, April 9

Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. On March 31, the ODOT bargaining team met with management for our fourth session. This was the last session to introduce new issues and our team passed […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, April 23

On April 14, the bargaining team met again with management to wade through proposals, identify areas of agreement and pass counter proposals. Among our top priorities are a better balance on comp time cashouts, break language, stewards’ rights and workplace safety. Management responded to our new proposals in a disappointing manner, primarily responding with a simple […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, May 20

Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. On May 12, the bargaining team met again with management to discuss proposals on the table, identify areas of agreement and pass counter proposals. Among our top […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, June 4

On May 26, the bargaining team met with management until pretty late into the evening. Our top priorities remain supporting a better work-life balance, improving stewards’ rights and increasing workplace safety. We passed a lot during the last session and await management’s response. Management proposed two packages, which included: Article 122.3 – an increase in […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update, May 20

We met with management again on Wednesday, May 12 for another productive session of negotiations. We reached two important agreements with management: Agreement on use of agency internet during non-work hours (PERS): Workers now have the ability to use the agency’s internet during non working hours through agency policy. Agreement to sunset unnecessary background checks (DAS, […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update, May 27

We met with management again on Wednesday May 19th to continue our negotiations. Here’s a summary of the progress we made. Article 101.5 Q,V DCBS WCB – Safety and health. We spent time hearing from OSHA workers about their experiences through the pandemic. These workers have experienced doxing, threats to themselves on the job, their […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update, June 4

We met on Wednesday May 26th with management for our longest bargaining session yet. Negotiations went back and forth from 2pm to after 12:30am. Most of our time was spent passing back and forth versions of our proposals trying to reach an agreement. Just before midnight we met for the final time with management and shared […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update, June 15

We are excited to announce that we were able to come to an agreement with management and have settled the Specials Coalition bargaining session. Below is a list of where we landed on our outstanding proposals. Article 71.5 Revenue – Seasonal employees: This agreement ensures that Seasonal workers will receive 10 days’ notice when a season […]

Central Table Bargaining Update, June 14

On Thursday, June 10, we met with management and came to a tentative agreement (pending ratification by our full membership) on a number of articles! Check out the highlights below, and click here for the latest on all proposals.  Highlights: Strengthened Union and Steward Rights. Wins in this area include steward access to space and […]

Respect Us, Protect Us, Pay Us. Rebecca's Story

Being in union has transformed homecare in Oregon, and it has truly changed my life. I am a homecare worker, and since I joined SEIU 503 my wages have gone from as low as $2.30 per hour to over $15. My Union won healthcare plans for many of us, paid time-off, workers compensation and so […]

Tentative Agreement for Wilsonville SMART Transit!

The bargaining team voted to sign a Tentative Agreement! The TA is final after the bargaining unit members vote on it. This agreement gives us a financial boost and at the same time it gives both sides an opportunity to see how the variable shifts will impact us. If drivers strongly dislike the variable schedules, […]

Are you ready for ‘the big one’? Or the next forest fire?

Emergency Preparedness Does emergency preparedness seem vague and overwhelming? Just like everything else, you can do a lot if you break it down into baby steps. Since 2017, our Union has operated a Wildfire Assistance Fund to help members who are impacted by fire season. It was a small program that, fortunately, only impacted a […]

Heads Up: Paper Vouchers Are Going Away!

We are less than two months away from the New E-Voucher (PTC) System Pilot! Homecare workers will soon be getting new electronic voucher system to replace paper vouchers. The new program will be piloting soon. The Paid Time Capture (PTC) pilot group includes the following Local Offices, and the Consumers and Homecare Workers they serve: […]

Your June 8 Contract Bargaining Update

Your member-elected Homecare/PSW bargaining Team met with the State on Tuesday, June 8 for our third bargaining session.  In this session, we continued negotiations over the State’s new Paid Time Capture/E-Voucher system, launching this summer for APD Homecare workers and Personal Care Attendants (PCAs,) and we passed all of our initial proposals. To read more […]

Provider Time Capture (PTC) Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Provider Time Capture (PTC)? A. Provider Time Capture is the name of the project that is implementing EVV. Q. What if I do not have a smart phone, computer, or internet access? A. ODHS and OHA are committed to providing other ways of capturing EVV required data if coverage isn’t available. There […]

CAPE By-Laws

The Outstanding Steward Awards are just around the corner!

Stewards are the backbone of our union. If you’ve ever been wrongfully terminated, unfairly disciplined or mistreated at work, you know the importance of a union steward. That’s why every two years, we recognize the outstanding stewards who are part of this vital program. The Outstanding Steward Awards are just around the corner and it’s time to […]

Central Table Update, June 7

PRIORITY BARGAINING ISSUES  UNION PROPOSAL  MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL Date Last Proposed  Across-the-board Raises – 7/1/21: 3% or $100/mo, whichever is greater – 7/1/22: 3% or $100/mo, whichever is greater – 10/1/21: 2%* – 7/1/22: 1.85%* 4/1/21 – union & management Steps Steps both years of contract** Steps both years of contract** 4/1/21 – union & management […]

Oregon bans “panic defense”

The Oregon Legislature passes SB 704, which bans the use of the LGBTQ Panic Defense, a legal strategy which perpetrators use to defend the use of violence against LGBTQ victims. Learn more: http://www.basicrights.org/news/were-fighting-for-trans-peoples-lives/

Oregon bans conversion therapy

Oregon bans conversion therapy on minors by licensed professionals. Basic Rights Oregon leads the legislative effort to ban youth conversion therapy. Learn more: https://time.com/3889687/oregon-conversion-therapy-ban/

Same-sex marriage becomes legal in Oregon

Same-sex marriage becomes legal in Oregon on May 19, 2014 when a U.S. federal district judge rules that the state’s 2004 constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage violates the Equal Protection clause in the U.S. Constitution. Learn more: https://www.oregonlive.com/mapes/2014/05/oregon_gay_marriage_ban_struck.html

DOMA

On June 26, 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. In a 5 to 4 vote, the court ruled that DOMA violates the rights of gays and lesbians. The court also ruled that the law interferes with the states’ rights to define marriage. It was the first […]

Jason Collins

On April 29, 2013, Jason Collins of the NBA’s Washington Wizards announced in an essay in Sports Illustrated that he is gay. “I’m a 34-year-old N.B.A. center. I’m black and I’m gay,” he wrote. “I’ve reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want […]

“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repealed

On December 18, the U.S. Senate voted 65 to 31 to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the Clinton-era military policy that forbids openly gay men and women from serving in the military. Eight Republicans sided with Democrats to strike down the ban. President Obama signed the bill into law on December 22, 2010. Learn more: […]

Federal employees get some benefits

On June 17, President Obama signs a referendum allowing the same-sex partners of federal employees to receive benefits. They will not be allowed full health coverage, however. This is Obama’s first major initiative in his campaign promise to improve gay rights. Learn more: https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2009/06/obama_oks_equal_benefits_for_s.html

Oregon OKs domestic partnerships

In February 2008, the Oregon Legislature passed the Oregon Family Fairness Act that allowed same-sex couples to register as domestic partners allowing them some spousal rights of married couples. Learn more: https://www.stephensmargolin.com/blog/2008/02/here-come-the-brides-the-oregon-family-fairness-act/

Lawrence v. Texas

The U.S. Supreme Court rules in Lawrence v. Texas that sodomy laws in the U.S. are unconstitutional. Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote, “Liberty presumes an autonomy of self that includes freedom of thought, belief, expression, and certain intimate conduct.” Learn More: https://www.law.virginia.edu/news/202103/common-law-looks-pushback-against-landmark-civil-rights-decisions-family-law

Vermont recognizes civil unions

Vermont becomes the first state in the country to legally recognize civil unions between gay or lesbian couples. The law states that these “couples would be entitled to the same benefits, privileges, and responsibilities as spouses.” It stops short of referring to same-sex unions as marriage, which the state defines as heterosexual. Learn more: https://www.nytimes.com/2000/04/26/us/vermont-gives-final-approval-to-same-sex-unions.html

Romer v Evans

In Romer v. Evans, the Supreme Court strikes down Colorado’s Amendment 2, which denied gays and lesbians protections against discrimination, calling them “special rights.” According to Justice Anthony Kennedy, “We find nothing special in the protections Amendment 2 withholds. These protections . . . constitute ordinary civil life in a free society.” Learn more: https://www.nationalreview.com/bench-memos/this-day-in-liberal-judicial-activism-may-20-4/

1993 March on Washington

On April 25, an estimated 800,000 to one million people participate in the March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay, and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation. Several events such as art and history exhibits, public service outings and workshops are held throughout Washington, DC leading up the event. Jesse Jackson, RuPaul, Martina Navratilova, and Eartha Kitt […]

Don't Ask Don't Tell

The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy is instituted for the U.S. military, permitting gay people to serve in the military but banning homosexual activity. Thousands of gay people were discharged as a result of this so-called compromise to simply permitting gay people to serve in the military. Learn More: https://www.history.com/news/dont-ask-dont-tell-repeal-compromise

Elizabeth Taylor testifies before Congress

Elizabeth Taylor, a founding member of amFAR testifies before Congress to demand funding and national attention to the AIDS Crisis. Learn More: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2011/03/25/134798242/elizabeth-taylor-an-aids-activist-to-remember

ACT UP

ACT UP Chicago (Aids Coalition to Unleash Power) formed in the late 1980s as a grassroots activist group committed to direct action protest for people with AIDS (PWAs) and AIDS/HIV awareness. Learn More: https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/May-2020/Oral-History-ACT-UP-Chicago-AIDS/

American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR)

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is founded as one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and advocacy. Learn more: https://www.amfar.org/amfar-introduction-and-history/

A first in Wisconsin

Wisconsin becomes the first state to outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Learn more: https://www.nglcc.org/blog/lgbt-history-countrys-first-lgbt-anti-discrimination-bill

National March on Washington

Approximately 200,000 people participated in the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in Washington, D.C., in October. It was the largest political gathering in support of LGBT rights to date. Learn more: https://www.nglcc.org/blog/lgbt-history-national-march-washington-lesbian-and-gay-rights

Harvey Milk

In 1978, Harvey Milk made national news when he was sworn in as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Running against 16 other candidates, he wins the election by 30 percent. Milk begins his term by sponsoring a civil rights bill that outlawed sexual orientation discrimination. After a leading a successful campaign […]

Stonewall Uprising

When police raided the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in the Greenwich Village section of New York City on June 28, 1969, the street erupted into violent protests that lasted for the next six days. The Stonewall riots, as they came to be known, marked a major turning point in the modern gay civil […]

National Transsexual Counseling Unit

In the aftermath of the Compton’s Cafeteria Riot, a network of transgender social, psychological, and medical support services was established, which culminated in 1968 with the creation of the National Transsexual Counseling Unit [NTCU], the first such peer-run support and advocacy organization in the world. Learn more: https://outalliance.org/shoulders-to-stand-on-continuing-history-of-the-transgender-community/

Pride Month 2021

This statement is from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Pride Month 2021: As we observe Pride Month 2021, we are committed to lifting up the voices of our LGBTQ+ communities and recognize their contributions to our union and society. At SEIU 503, we’re proud of our Lavender Caucus, an […]

Daughters of Bilitis

The first lesbian-rights organization in the United States, the Daughters of Bilitis, was established in San Francisco in 1955. Learn more: https://guides.loc.gov/lgbtq-studies/before-stonewall/daughters-of-bilitis

Mattachine Society

The Mattachine Society, the first national gay rights organization, is formed by Harry Hay, considered by many to be the founder of the gay rights movement. Learn more: https://time.com/longform/mattachine-society/

LGBTQIAA+ Workers in History: An Incomplete Timeline

1924 1950 1955 1966 1969 1978 1979 1982 1985 1987 1992 1993 1993 1996 2000 2003 2008 2009 2010 2013 2013 2014 2015

Society for Human Rights

The Society for Human Rights, the first gay-rights organization in the United States, was founded in Chicago by Henry Gerber on December 24, 1924. It was shut down by police within a few months.   Learn more: https://legacyprojectchicago.org/milestone/society-human-rights

Electronic Vouchers: Provider Time Capture Project (OR PTC DCI)

The Provider Time Capture project, or OR PTCI DCI, is a new way to track hours and get paid. It will replace the paper voucher system that homecare workers in the Adults and People with Disabilities Program (APD) and personal care attendants are currently using. The program will go live on September 12, 2021. Make […]

Introducing the Veterans Caucus

On June 15, 2021, SEIU 503 Board of Directors approved a new membership group within our union, The Veterans Caucus. The caucus’s vision will be: To support veterans by providing a safe and welcoming space for all voices to be heard by Recognizing that veterans come from all different backgrounds and experiences, and that not […]

I Am Essential Digital Toolkit

The member-elected State bargaining team is meeting with management this week, and their top economic priorities moving forward will be a proposal on hazard pay for essential workers and cost of living adjustments (COLAs) for everyone. We are very close to finalizing a new contract, so now is the time to put pressure on management […]

Land Acknowledgement

With a genuine desire for collective healing, understanding, and partnership with SEIU 503, we offer this Land Acknowledgement to respectfully recognize the land and our Indigenous people. SEIU 503 recognizes the Klamath tribe of the Southern Oregon plateau; the Burns Paiute of the high-desert east; the Coquille of Southern Oregon’s coastal forests; the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde in the northern Coast Range; […]

Jackson County Airport Workers Unite and Win Fair Compensation!

In January 2021, a Jackson County Airport member called their Union organizer because they believed management was not paying them the correct amount for their work on holidays. SEIU 503 members and organizers in Jackson County immediately stepped into action to solve the issue. The issue was fairly straightforward; the members were not receiving Holiday […]

PEBB Update - Plan Year 2022 Rates Set!

“Cost savings through our work at the legislature and decreased utilization during the pandemic allowed us to not shift any additional costs to PEBB members while expanding benefits and advancing equity in the 2022 plan year. We need to continue to fight for the quality, affordable health care our families deserve.” — Shaun Parkman, SEIU […]

Member Wins $75,000 Settlement for Wrongful Termination

Our union is a powerful association of workers fighting to protect each other from bad working conditions and to ensure that our careers stay intact. We often use the power of our contract language to confront abuses from management, but sometimes those violations are so egregious that we must take on legal measures as part […]

Mike Powers testimony on PEBB

  SEIU 503 President Mike Powers testified in support of HB 2081, which would help contain health care costs.

Central Table Bargaining Update, May 21

May 21, 2021 State has the Revenue to Respect Us, Protect Us, Pay Us! Revenue is up! Time to pay state workers what we deserve This week we heard that the state’s economists are expecting over $1 billion more in revenue than previously anticipated. That is good news for the state. It means we can […]

In final weeks of Legislative Session, SEIU members push a bold agenda

During the final weeks of the Legislative Session, state lawmakers have the opportunity make big, bold investments in the things we care about like caregiving, essential workers, housing, health care, and more. The June revenue forecast shows that not only has Oregon’s budget outlook returned to pre-pandemic levels, but we actually have more than $1.1 […]

Early stages of negotiations continue: May 18 Update

Español abajo   When workers negotiate a new contract with the State, we have an opportunity to raise wages, protect consumer hours, and fight for changes at DHS that will make it easier for us to care for seniors and people with disabilities. Stay up to date on the latest news, and find out how […]

Special Coalitions Bargaining Update, May 19

We met with management again on Wednesday, May 12 for another productive session of negotiations. We were able to sign another tentative agreement that was specific to our Letters of Agreement where two of the Unions positions on LOA’s were altered. One LOA was a particular victory for workers at PERS who after many years […]

Higher Education Bargaining Update, May 2021

In recent weeks you may have seen notices from Universities across the state, announcing their plans to mandate the Covid-19 vaccine for Fall reopening. We are disappointed that most Universities neglected to notify or consult with Union leadership before sending the notice. Since these announcements began, we’ve heard from many Higher Education members, and though […]

Fourth nursing home chain raises wages in response to union contract win

Empress Becomes Fourth Nursing Home Chain In Oregon To Raise Wages to $18 per hour.  Portland, OR—The wave of wage increases at nursing homes in Oregon continues this week with Empress becoming the fourth chain to raise its starting wage to $18 per hour. The agreement between Empress and SEIU 503 went into effect on […]

Mike Nearman does not deserve to be in office

In January, we joined community organizations, other unions, and elected officials to call for the expulsion of Rep. Nearman from the Oregon Legislature for his actions on December 21 if he does not resign. In light of recent criminal charges filed against him by the Marion County District Attorney, we renew those calls today. Mike […]

Wages rise in nursing home industry following union contract win

Following A Landmark Union Contract at Oregon’s Largest Nursing Home Chain, Two Additional Chains Raise Wages to $18 Per Hour.  Avalon and Prestige, two large nursing home chains in Oregon, raised their base-pay rate last week, as the industry moves to match the standards set by SEIU 503’s new contract with the Avamere Family of […]

Governor lifts mask requirement for fully vaccinated Oregonians

Governor Kate Brown issued a major policy shift today, lifting the requirement for masks to be worn in most public spaces. This will likely have a major impact on SEIU 503 members who wear masks at work and who interact with the public, however, no changes will take place immediately in workplace settings. The announcement […]

Dental bills got you down? Carewell SEIU 503 now provides reimbursements for out-of-pocket dental expenses!

If you receive Carewell SEIU 503 benefits, you have a great dental plan through Kaiser Permanente. This plan offers preventive care and minor restoration services at no cost to you – this means routine fillings, simple extractions, and teeth cleaning are all free.   But other dental services have coinsurances that require you to pay for […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, May 6

The I Am Essential bargaining campaign is well underway. Both the Central Table and the ODOT Coalition Table are meeting regularly to bargain for a strong contract. While the bargaining team is representing the needs of membership to the best of their ability, their voices are stronger with evidence and examples that you can provide! […]

General Council passes resolution to create a more safe and equitable union

by Mike Powers  In our union, we believe in and fight for a just society: where all workers are valued and all people respected; where all families and communities can thrive; and where we leave a more just and equitable world for generations to come.  To achieve this vision, we must recognize that not all […]

Union-won compensation for City of Cannon Beach!

After months of tough negotiations, SEIU Local 503 members at the City of Cannon Beach reached a tentative agreement on April 27, 2021. This three-year contract includes raises of 4.5%, 2%, and 2%, respectively, and a new incentive program for employees with Water and Wastewater certifications that allows members to earn as much as 9% […]

Public Sector Leader Development Program

The Member Leader Development Program (MLDP) was created to bring members into the heart of SEIU operations and provide them with training and resources to be leaders in their local Unions. This program runs for a minimum of 8 weeks and includes a variety of public sector workers each session. Each session is referred to commonly as […]

Help reform Oregon's long-term care facilities!

Yuri Kochiyama

Japanese American activist Yuri Kochiyama was born in 1921 as Mary Yuriko Nakahara, She spent the early years of her life in San Pedro, Calif., a small town south of Los Angeles. Months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, she and her family were forced to relocate to internment camps along with tens of […]

Tsuguo "Ike" Ikeda

Tsuguo “Ike” Ikeda was born 1924 in Portland, Oregon. Like many Japanese Americans in Oregon, he was incarcerated at the North Portland Assembly Center and later, the Minidoka concentration camp in Idaho. At the age of 17, Tsuguo walked into the Minidoka Concentration Camp & vowed to spend the rest of his life working for […]

Minoru Yasui

Minoru Yasui was born and raised in Hood River as one of 9 children of Japanese immigrant fruit farmers, Shidzuyo and Masuo Yasui. In 1939, Yasui became the first Japanese American to graduate from the University of Oregon School of Law and the first Japanese American member of the Oregon Bar. On March 28, 1942, […]

Ah Bing

Ah Bing immigrated from China to the U.S. around 1855. He worked as a foreman, managing more than 30 workers, and caring for trees in the Lewelling family fruit orchards in Milwaukie, Oregon for about 35 years. While working on the Lewelling farm, Ah Bing cultivated the Bing cherry. As the story goes, one day […]

APAHM

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Statement

Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers on Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: As we observe Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we must acknowledge the rise in violence and harassment targeting these communities and reaffirm our commitment to #StopAsianHate. An examination of the history of Asians and Pacific Islanders (API) […]

#StopAsianHate

Asian Americans have been subjected to harassment and violence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The mass shooting in Atlanta on March 16, 2021 left 8 people dead, including 6 Asian women. #StopAsianHate shows solidarity and support for Asian Americans and our union is proud to participate. Learn more: https://seiu503.org/member_news/atlanta-shooting/

Garment Workers’ Strike

On June 24, 1982, nearly 20,000 garment workers rallied in Columbus Park, carrying banners and picket signs. Afterwards, the crowd marched through Chinatown. As union leader Katie Quan recalled later, “It was an exhilarating moment. Thousands upon thousands of Chinese immigrant women had come together to stand up for themselves.” Learn more: http://ilgwu.ilr.cornell.edu/announcements/5.html

Pius “Papa Mau” Piailug

Pius “Papa Mau” Piailug was one of the few remaining people on earth who held traditional, indigenous knowledge of non-instrument wayfinding methods for open-ocean voyaging when he helped Hawaiians relearn the navigation that originally brought them to the Hawaiian Islands. Papa Mau trained the crew of the Hōkūle‘a, a traditional voyaging canoe that made its […]

Gidra

Gidra: The Monthly of the Asian American Experience, the self-proclaimed “voice of the Asian American movement,” was a revolutionary monthly newspaper-magazine that ran from 1969 to 1974. It was started by a group of Asian American students at the University of California, Los Angeles as a platform to discuss Asian American interests on campus and […]

Delano Grape Strike

In 1965 Philip Vera Cruz, a Filipino American,and others led the Delano Grape Strike. That was the origin of the grape strike with a demand of 10 cents/hour increase in pay. The strike captured the spirit and imagination of people everywhere. The campaign to boycott non-union grapes attracted national and international support. This led to […]

Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 repealed immigration-admissions policy based on race and ethnicity, and gave rise to large-scale immigration.

Patsy Mink

In 1964, Patsy Takemoto Mink became the first Asian Pacific American woman elected to Congress from Hawai‘i. In 1974, she was able to pass the Women’s Educational Equity Act to promote gender equality in schools. After her death, the Title IX law was renamed the Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act.

Dr. Chien-Shiung Wu

Chien-Shiung, the First Lady of Physics, was born on May 31, 1912 and raised in a small fishing town just north of Shanghai, China. In 1934, Chien-Shiung graduated at the top of her class with a degree in physics from the National Central University in Nanking, China. She enrolled at the University of California Berkeley in 1936 and graduated with her PhD in physics in 1940. While at Columbia University, Chein-Shiung worked on the Manhattan Project to develop a nuclear bomb, where her research included improving Geiger counters for the detection of radiation and the enrichment of uranium in large quantities.

442nd Regimental Combat Team

As Japanese Americans were detained in camps around the United States, the 442nd Infantry Regiment was composed primarily of Japanese Americans and went on to become the most heavily-decorated unit in the history of the U.S. military for their valor and heroism during World War II.

Sue Ko Lee

Sue Ko Lee was a Chinese American garment worker and labor organizer with the Chinese Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Association. In 1938, she participated in a successful fifteen-week strike against the National Dollar Stores garment factory. At the time, it was the longest strike in the history of San Francisco’s Chinatown. Lee went on to become a leader in the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union (ILGWU) in California.

Leah Hing

Born in Portland, Oregon in 1907, Leah Hing became the first Chinese American woman pilot in 1934.

Bhagat Singh Thind

Thind received his US citizenship on December 9, 1918, but the Bureau of Naturalization revoked it on the basis that he was not “Caucasian.” The Supreme Court unanimously sided with the Bureau of Naturalization in United States v. Bhagat Singh Thind and denied Thind’s citizenship on the basis of race. In 1935 after the Congress passed the Nye-Lea Act, which made World War I veterans eligible for naturalization regardless of race, he was finally granted United States citizenship nearly two decades after he first petitioned for naturalization.

O‘ahu Sugar Strike

In the O‘ahu Sugar Strike of 1920, Japanese and Filipino laborers went on strike together for six months on four major Hawaiian islands.

Dr. Mabel Ping-Hua Lee

Mabel was a known figure in New York’s suffrage movement. She helped lead a 1912 parade in New York City to advocate for women’s voting rights that drew ten thousand people.

PPS Nutrition Service Workers Overcome Obstacles, Win $1000 "Equity Payment"

It was a challenging bargaining year for Nutrition Service Workers at Portland Public Schools, but in the end it was incredibly successful and will make a big difference in the lives of our members. We’re proud to announce that Portland Public Schools has agreed to a one-time payment of $1,000 to those SEIU Nutrition Services […]

Statement on strike at Oregon Institute of Technology

Faculty at the Oregon Institute of Technology (OT-AAUP) are striking for fair wages, secure benefits, and reasonable and clearly defined workload. Our members have joined them on the picket lines and below is a letter from David Roco, president of SEIU 503 Sublocal 84 which represents about 200 classified staff at Southern Oregon University in […]

Queen Lili'uokalani

After King Kalakaua passed away in 1891, his sister and heir Lili'uokalani became the last sovereign ruler of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Chinese Exclusion Act

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 made it illegal for Chinese workers to come to America and for Chinese nationals already here ever to become U.S. citizens and remained in place for more than 60 years.

Chinese Massacre of 1871

Following a police officer being wounded and a civilian who assisted police being killed while responding to an incident involving Chinese Americans in Los Angeles on October 24, 1871, 17 Chinese Americans were massacred by a mob.

Asian American, Desi, and Pacific Islander Workers in History: An Incomplete Timeline

1841 1865 1867 1871 1875 1882 1891 1914 1920 1923 1934 1938 1942 1944 1953 1957 1964 1965 1965 1969 1975 1982 1988 2021

Transcontinental Railroad

The First Transcontinental Railroad, completed May 10, 1869, linked the nation and significantly reduced cross-country travel time from months to less than a week. The Central Pacific Railroad, the company that built the western portion of the railroad, employed more than 10,000 Chinese laborers.

Nakanohama Manjiro

Nakanohama Manjiro, or “John Mung,” a fisherman, was the first Japanese immigrant to live in the United States when he arrived on May 7, 1843.

State Bargaining 2021

Another late pay fiasco at DHS

We just learned that DHS missed a deadline and more than 7,000 homecare workers who are expecting a check tomorrow won’t see it until Wednesday, April 28. This will not impact PSWs. We’ve seen this before. Unfortunately, it’s a pattern of disrespect from the people at the highest levels of DHS. And we have to […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update, 4/29 Member Meeting

The I Am Essential bargaining campaign is well underway. Both the Central Table and the ODOT Coalition Table are meeting regularly to bargain for a strong contract. While the bargaining team is representing the needs of membership to the best of their ability, their voices are stronger with evidence and examples that you can provide! […]

Watch: Roundtable discussion on the future of long-term care

SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger interviews three care providers about their experience during COVID-19 and how we can reimagine care work in the years to come. Take Action Legislators need to hear from you about why it’s so important for us to prioritize essential workers in the recovery plans. Click below to contact your […]

We Are Essential

Over the last year, SEIU 503 members have worked through a pandemic, wildfires, ice storms, and a racial justice reckoning. We are the essential workers who care for your loved ones, file unemployment claims, plow our highways, battle wildfires, and much more. We deserve to be respected for our contributions to help keep Oregon moving […]

Invisible No More - What the American Jobs Plan Means for Care Providers

Homecare workers have been fighting for respect and to be validated for decades. We were treated like babysitters and paid like babysitters, until we formed a union 20 years ago. For every two steps forward, it’s been a step back as lawmakers continue to undervalue the crucial services that care workers provide. Now, we have […]

You may qualify for The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low- to moderate-income workers and families get a tax break. If you qualify, you can use the credit to reduce the taxes you owe – and maybe increase your refund. Who qualifies? To qualify, you must: Have earned under the income cap. Have investment income below $3,650 in […]

Thank you for joining us!

Thank you for spending time with your union. We hope you had a great event. While we’ve got you, please take a moment to make sure your contact information is up to date. This will ensure you get event reminders, bargaining updates, and other important news from your union. You can do so by going […]

Human Services Coalition Bargaining Proposals 2021

This table will be updated after each bargaining session. Please note, this table only reflects major points of proposals. Not every aspect of every proposal is reflected below. For more detail, please reach out to your coalition’s bargaining delegate. Last updated 6/1/21. Article Proposal Management Proposal DHS LOA HS Case Manager – Trial Service Union […]

Union victories in Pendleton and Central Oregon!

With healthcare on many of our minds, we’re excited to announce that SEIU 503 members at the City of Pendleton and the Central Oregon Irrigation District just scored big wins, improving the health and financial wellness of members and their families. In Pendleton, members settled a contract in early April with a big win; an […]

SEIU 503 Earth Day Message 2021: We All Must Act Now

On Earth Day 2021, we’d like to lift up the work of SEIU 503 members to make environmental justice a majority priority for our union. Climate change is a worldwide crisis and sometimes it’s difficult to see what impact we can make as individuals, a union, a state, or even a country. We don’t have […]

Statement on Derek Chauvin verdict

  The following is a statement from SEIU 503 on the Dereck Chauvin verdict:   Today we have a recognition that George Floyd’s life had value and that his murderer won’t walk free. Justice would be if George Floyd was alive today. As a labor movement, we must recommit to doing our part to dismantle […]

SEIU Local 503 Statement on Rep. Nearman

The following is a statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger and President Mike Powers:    Representative Mike Nearman’s comments on the Oregon House floor this week were consistent with his pattern of upholding, enabling, and emboldening white supremacy. House Bill 2761 passed with broad bipartisan support to direct the Oregon Secretary of State […]

Black Lives Matter: SEIU 503 Board of Directors Resolution in Support of the Black Lives Movement

In our union, we believe in and fight for our vision for a just society: where all workers are valued and all people respected, no matter where we are from or the color of our skin; where all families and communities can thrive; and where we leave a more just and equitable world for generations […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update: Here's where we are right now.

Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. Visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential or join the SEIU State Workers Facebook group to stay up to date. The I Am Essential bargaining campaign is pushing forward toward a strong contract. Both the Central […]

Homecare Provider Time Capture Project

This summer, DHS is rolling out a new way to track hours. This will replace the current voucher system. Here’s an update on the rollout from DHS: The Provider Time Capture (PTC) Project is rolling out a new electronic solution this summer called OR PTC DCI. This stands for Oregon, Provider Time Capture, Direct Care […]

Climate Justice Committee Update

Greetings from Lois Yoshishige and Twila Jacobsen, co-chairs, SEIU 503 Climate Justice Committee When I saw this image coming through my Facebook news, I took a big breath in and smiled at that little machine working away to free the monster cargo ship. Imagine each of us retirees in an excavator, all in a line, […]

SEIU 503 Anti-Asian Hate Zoom Meeting

The shooting event in Atlanta created a chain of reactions from Asian communities and governments to support Asian American communities. The SEIU Local 503 Asian Desi Pacific Islander Caucus would like to provide a space for people who wants to learn how to support Asian American communities and understand the histories of Asian Americans that […]

Landmark union contract sets a new standard for long-term care industry

At the core of the new contract are industry leading wages, staffing ratios and training programs.    By Melissa Unger  “It’s about respect.”  Workers at Avamere nursing homes repeated this refrain throughout an intense, month-long negotiation with management over their new contract. After a year in which the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged nursing homes and took […]

Avamere workers win best nursing home contract in Oregon!

After an intense month of contract negotiations and workplace actions, the Avamere worker bargaining team reached a tentative agreement with some of the best wages, benefits, and working conditions nursing home workers have ever seen. Avamere management and our union bargaining team worked together to solve long-standing problems that COVID highlighted. Together, we developed solutions […]

Avamere 2021 Tentative Agreements

SIGNED – tentative agreement – Economic Proposal 4-1-2021.6.54 SIGNED – Tentative Agreement Counter Proposal 4-1-2021.4.48pm Article 22 – Final & Signed AvamereTA_WageScale

Join the SEIU Caucus Community! 

  SEIU 503’s caucuses are affinity groups where people connect to other members with shared identities. Check out our caucus community on Facebook, or let us know that you’re interested in joining a caucus.

Veteran's Caucus

The Veterans Caucus is a group of members who are military veterans and their supporters who advocate for issues that affect veterans and their families. The caucus aims to promote policies that benefit veterans and raise awareness of issues affecting veterans within the union. Co-Chairs: Carla Hodges & Renae Hill Treasurer: Angela Jelley Secretary: Antoinette Renee’ McWhorter […]

Climate Justice Committee

The Climate Justice Committee leads our union’s efforts to take immediate, bold action – internally and outside of our union – to address climate change with an equity lens. Chair: Michael Williams. Staff Advisor: Jay Parasco. 2022 General Council Resolutions Legislative Action on Climate Change Reducing SEIU 503’s Climate Impact Our Work Oregon’s first labor […]

Women's Council

The women’s council is an active group in our union working to engage new and emerging women-identified leaders. Co-Chairs: Ivonne Rivero and Stephanie Prentiss. Staff Advisors: Sadie Davis and Lesley Adams. Contact: womenscouncilgroup@seiu503.org      

Womxn of Color Caucus

Co-Chairs: Emily Wang, Tammy Tate-Houdroge, Theodora Ko Thompson, Paula Pena, Ivonne Rivero, and Nannette Carter-Jafri. Staff Advisor: Lucilene Whitesell Facebook Facebook Group        

Lavender Caucus

The SEIU 503 Lavender Caucus exists to serve as a resource for LGBTQIA2S+ union members and their families through education, outreach, and visibility in addition to fostering leadership in the Service Employees International Union.  Staff Advisors: Francesca Edmonds, Robin Fisher To check your demographic information including letting us know that you consider yourself LGBTQIA2S+ or […]

Latinx Caucus

A group of members who share similar interests, struggles, and history and are passionate about making change in our communities. We have established a set of priorities that guide us, which includes education, healthcare, immigration, and economic development for members and our community. Meetings are in Spanish and English interpretation is available. Co-Chairs: Ivonne Rivero […]

Asian Desi Pacific Islander (ADPI) Caucus

With roots tracing back to nearly fifty different countries, the ADPI Caucus’s mission is to reach out to our culturally diverse ADPI workers, union members, and families to promote participation in union and community activities. Chair: Theodora Ko Thompson Staff Advisors: Meng-Lun Chen-Pinkham and Andrew Kung. Contact: adpicaucus@seiu503.org  

Indigenous People's Caucus

The SEIU 503 Indigenous People’s Caucus gives voice to the collective experiences and struggles of Indigenous communities. We are committed to decolonization, celebrating Indigenous culture and knowledge, and uplifting each other regardless of tribal affiliation, federal recognition, geography, and national origins. SEIU 503 Land Acknowledgement Co-Chairs: Paula Pena and Jean Jones Staff Advisors: LeA Thornton […]

Join the SEIU Caucus Community! 

SEIU 503’s caucuses are affinity groups where people connect to other members with shared identities.

Addus Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

Bargaining Update, April 2

NEWS FROM THE TABLE The State Central Table negotiates on behalf of all SEIU 503-represented State employees. We work in cooperation with “coalition tables,” where issues specific to certain agencies are negotiated. For more information on our bargaining campaign, visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential.     April 2 Update from your member-elected, Central Table Bargaining Team:  Your bargaining team […]

Secretary of State Report Identifies Pathways to Fix Oregon Long-Term Care

The Oregon Secretary of State Audits Division just released a report identifying actionable steps the Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, and the Oregon Legislature can take to increase safety for long-term care facility residents. This report comes after the majority of COVID-related deaths in Oregon occurred at long-term care facilities. The improvements […]

Care Provider Advocacy 2021

2021 is a bargaining year for more than 9 in 10 SEIU 503 members. Our next contracts will largely be determined by what the Oregon Legislature allocates in the state budget. You can help win a fair contract by sharing your story. Our union is holding a series of storytelling trainings specifically for care providers, […]

Event Signup Confirmation

Thank you for registering for your event! Make sure your contact information is up to date to ensure you get event reminders, bargaining updates, and other important news from your union. You can do so by going here.   Are you following us on social media?                   […]

OED Limited Duration Employee Information

Congratulations on your new position with the Oregon Employment Department! Your work is essential in supporting the thousands of Oregonians still reeling from the COVID pandemic. Your union has fought to make your job as equitable as possible and we have pushed the State to ensure that limited duration employees can have some of the […]

Oregon's recovery starts with essential workers

Take Action Legislators need to hear from you about why it’s so important for us to prioritize essential workers in the recovery plans. Click below to contact your legislator today. Tell Oregon Lawmakers: Support our Economic Recovery!

PEBB Update: SEIU 503 members push for cost control and maintenance of high-quality benefits

March 2021 PEBB Update Our members have consistently bargained for access to good health care and a pathway to retirement in exchange for modest wages. We’ve been able to maintain outstanding health care as the private sector has struggled with skyrocketing costs. This is the result of our bargaining power as well as PEBB taking […]

With Federal funds, SEIU 503 calls on Legislature and Governor to "think boldly"

SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger made the following statement in response to the Co-Chairs’ Budget Framework and Governor Kate Brown’s 10-Point Economic Recovery Plan: This week we have seen the Governor release an economic recovery plan and also the co-chairs release their budget framework. As the Legislature and Governor consider funding from the Congress, […]

SEIU 503 Statements on Atlanta Shooting and #StopAsianHate

As an Asian American (Taiwanese) woman myself, who is also a mother, grandmother, auntie, and caregiver of my 76-year old mother— like many of you, I am thinking about the victims, their families/our families, our community, and the roots of our nation’s racist history, where many of our members continue to be treated as less […]

Oregon's recovery starts with essential workers

Take Action Legislators need to hear from you about why it’s so important for us to prioritize essential workers in the recovery plans. Click below to contact your legislator today. Tell Oregon Lawmakers: Support our Economic Recovery!

COVID-19 Vaccine Information & Resources

Bargaining Update, March 19

NEWS FROM THE TABLE The State Central Table negotiates on behalf of all SEIU 503-represented State employees. We work in cooperation with “coalition tables,” where issues specific to certain agencies are negotiated. For more information on our bargaining campaign, visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential.     March 19 Update from your member-elected, Central Table Bargaining Team:  We are hard […]

Central Table Tentative Agreement 2021

Please note, this table only reflects major points of proposals. Not every aspect of every proposal is reflected below. For more detail, please reach out to your coalition’s central table bargaining delegate. Last updated 7/19/21. PRIORITY ISSUES  TENTATIVE AGREEMENT:  Across-the-board Raises 12/1/21: 2.5%, but no less than $85/mo 12/1/22: 3.1%, but no less than $100/mo […]

What The American Rescue Plan Means For SEIU 503 Members

As the latest round of stimulus checks begins to arrive, we want to provide additional information on what President Biden’s American Rescue Plan means for our members. The $1.9 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill will have a major impact on our nation’s recovery from the public health and economic crises brought on by the pandemic, help […]

Statement on OSU President F. King Alexander

SEIU 503 members at Oregon State University made the following statement on the revelations regarding President F. King Alexander’s conduct at LSU:    SEIU503 supports survivors of sexual and interpersonal violence.  Issues of sexual and interpersonal violence do not only impact survivors and their families and loved ones, but they also impact the larger community.   […]

PPS Action

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Human Services Coalition Bargaining Update

Here’s the latest from the Human Services Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at DHS, OHA and the Oregon Employment Department. On March 10 the bargaining team signed two tentative agreements with the State of Oregon. These agreements will carry forward existing Letters of Agreement (LOA), including: DHS – Continuing the labor/management partnership around culture […]

ODOT Coalition Bargaining Update: The latest updates on negotiations!

Here’s the latest from the ODOT Coalition Bargaining Team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of workers at ODOT, DMV, ODFW, ODF, OPRD, OWRD, ODA and DOGAMI. Visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential or join the SEIU State Workers Facebook group to stay up to date. On March 10 the bargaining team met with management to continue discussions about existing Letters of Agreement […]

Specials Coalition Bargaining Update: New proposals on safety and career development!

Here’s the latest from The Specials Coalition bargaining team, your member-elected representatives who negotiate on behalf of the following agencies: ODE, OSL, OST, DAS, Commission for the Blind, PERS, DOJ, OHCS, TSPC, DOR, DCBS, BOLI, DVA, WCB, HECC and the Licensing Boards. Check out Seiu503.org/IAmEssential or join the State Worker Facebook group for the latest news and events related to […]

Bargaining Update, March 12

NEWS FROM THE TABLE The State Central Table negotiates on behalf of all SEIU 503-represented State employees. We work in cooperation with “coalition tables,” where issues specific to certain agencies are negotiated. For more information on our bargaining campaign, visit Seiu503.org/IAmEssential.     March 12 Update from your member-elected, Central Table Bargaining Team:  On Thursday we […]

SEIU 503 March 2021 Legislative Update

We’re two months into the 2021 Oregon legislative session, and our state economic outlook has improved significantly since the pandemic struck a year ago. In May of 2020, state economists predicted that General Fund revenues for the current biennium (2019-2021) would decline by nearly $2 billion. In the most recent forecast, economists revealed that revenues […]

Share your story to help win a fair contract!

2021 is a bargaining year for more than 9 in 10 SEIU 503 members. Our next contracts will largely be determined by what the Oregon Legislature allocates in the state budget. Oregon’s budget is a long document filled with lots of large numbers. Your story humanizes what is essentially a big spreadsheet. You can help […]

Take Action! Essential worker pay and long-term care reform

  With the passage of the American Rescue Plan, Oregon will receive billions of dollars in federal stimulus money. This one-time funding will be an absolute game changer for our state. It should switch our budget debate from cuts to abundance and include enough to finally provide hazard pay for the essential workers who have […]

Tribal government vaccine information

Members of Oregon’s tribal communities can find more information about how to sign-up for a coronavirus vaccine on their tribe’s website. Some are scheduling vaccine appointments via phone, while others are asking members to fill out application forms online. Find out how to get a vaccine here: Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw […]

Pharmacies with COVID vaccines

You can also find participating pharmacies at vaccinefinder.org. Safeway/Albertsons Schedule an appointment at your local Safeway or Albertson’s store here. Costco 13 Costco locations across Oregon Select your Costco location to schedule an appointment and schedule an appointment here. Fred Meyer Locations in Oregon & Washington Schedule using vaccine appointment tool here. Walgreens Create a Walgreens.com pharmacy account, […]

March 8th: Honor the women who do care work!

On March 8th Homecare Workers will be coming together throughout the different parts of the state in homage of International Women’s Day to honor the majority-female homecare workforce. 87% of home care providers are women, overwhelmingly Black, Latinx, and Asian Pacific Islander women. As we celebrate International Women’s Day we will highlight the women who […]

Rawlin Workers End Strike; Resign En Masse

Workers at The Rawlin, a memory care facility owned by Onelife, ended a two week strike today, resigning en masse because they cannot continue in good conscience working for this company. About 50% of the workers at the facility submitted their resignation to management in a meeting today, and plan to take their fight to […]

Womxn Workers in History: An Incomplete Timeline

1911 1911 1914 1920 1925 1965 1966 1969 1969 1970 1970 1972 1975 1976 1993 2000 2005 2018 2019 2021

Budget Update Feb 26, 2021

Last year – as the pandemic shuttered businesses and unemployment hit record highs – economists warned that declining tax revenue could throw the state budget into crisis. We feared pay freezes, benefits cuts, or hours cuts. As it turns out, those fears were unfounded. We are actually in a much better position. This week economists […]

Racial justice is union work

SEIU 503 members are committed to fighting for racial justice. No matter where we come from or what we look like, we all deserve an equitable chance to pursue our dreams. We reject the politics of hate and division. We are fighting back against self-interested politicians and greedy corporations who try to divide us while […]

COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 Vaccine? Learn about the COVID-19 Vaccine. Where to get a vaccine? Contact your healthcare provider or medical insurance provider. Check to see if there is a clinic operating in your county. Click here for Oregon or here for Washington State. Contact your local pharmacy. Contact Tribal Governments. Is it safe? Watch:         […]

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PSW timesheet deadline extended due to power outages

As a result of the power outages across NW Oregon, DHS has extended the deadline for submitting your timesheets during this pay cycle. Here’s what you need to know. If you can submit your timesheets on time please do so. By submitted them as you normally would you will ensure that you get paid correctly […]

Hardship funds available for members impacted by inclement weather and power outages

This fund is now closed.

Join us Feb 26! SEIU Documentary Film Screening, 6:30pm. "9to5: The Story of a Movement"

Save the Date! RSVP here. Let’s have a movie night! SEIU 503, in partnership with Jobs With Justice Portland Rising Coalition, will be hosting a free livestream virtual screening of the film “9to5: The Story of a Movement” on Friday, February 26 from 6:30pm – 9pm. The film will be introduced by SEIU Local 503 member […]

Why every SEIU member needs to watch what’s happening at The Rawlin

by Mike Powers, President SEIU Local 503    Next week, workers at The Rawlin – a memory care facility owned by Onelife investments – will go on strike to save their residents’ lives and demand recognition for their union. SEIU 503 is proud to support them with the full power of our union because their actions […]

Rawlin workers are the future of long-term care

by Melissa Unger, Executive Director SEIU Local 503    Over the last two weeks, workers at The Rawlin – a memory care facility in Springfield, OR – have taken the extraordinarily brave step of confronting their managers about poor working conditions, poverty wages and reckless policies that workers say led to unnecessary deaths.  One of […]

In February We Celebrate Black History

This month, SEIU 503 is celebrating Black History Month by lifting up the voices of Black SEIU 503 members and members of the African/African American Caucus (AFRAM). Follow AFRAM or SEIU 503 on Facebook to see these stories.    No matter where we come from or what we look like, we all deserve a fair […]

2021 Bargaining and Legislative Advocacy

2021 is a bargaining year for more than 9 in 10 SEIU 503 members. Our next contracts will largely be determined by what the Oregon Legislature allocates in the state budget. You can help win a fair contract by sharing your story. Our union is holding a series of storytelling trainings to help you share […]

Homecare Retirement Savings Plan Delay

In 2019, thousands of homecare and personal support workers took our bargaining surveys and said that retirement security was a top concern. In response, the care providers on our Union’s bargaining team fought for and won a proposal to create a new retirement plan for care providers – the first of its kind in Oregon. […]

Get covered! The Health Insurance Marketplace now open for enrollment until August 15, 2021

Great news! In response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, President Biden has ordered a Special Enrollment Period for individuals and families for Marketplace coverage. This enrollment period will run from February 15, 2021, to August 15, 2021, and will allow individuals and families in states like Oregon that use Healthcare.gov to enroll in 2021 […]

Avamere Bargaining 2021

In 2021, Avamere workers are bargaining a new contract that covers wages, benefits, and workplace conditions like safety, PPE, staffing and more. Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining […]

Avamere Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

Nursing Home Worker Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.  

21 residents dead; poverty wages for workers; owners live in luxury

21 Residents Dead in 8 Weeks The Rawlin is a 72-bed Assisted Living / Memory care facility in Springfield, Oregon owned by Onelife Investments. 21 residents have died there in the past 8 weeks, only some of them from COVID — the real dangers to residents are critically short staffing, high turnover, and inadequate training. […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Team Agreed to Delay Contract Negotiations

There is currently a lot of uncertainty in the University budget. Because of this uncertainty, the Universities have proposed and the Higher Ed bargaining team has agreed to a short-term extension of our contract through January 31, 2022. This would mean negotiations would begin in September instead of this Spring.  This offers the best opportunity […]

Rawlin

SEIU 503 enhances, extends pandemic-related leave policies for State workers

Our union signed a Letter of Agreement with the State over the weekend that establishes new guidelines for Paid Child Care Leave and an extension of Emergency Paid Sick Leave. These new provisions are in effect from February 1, 2021, through March 31, 2021. Paid Child Care Leave: Must be employed with the State for […]

Help workers at The Rawlin fight to save lives

Workers at The Rawlin, a Onelife memory care facility, are striking to save lives. 23 deaths have occurred in the last 9 weeks – only six of them from COVID. Understaffing, insufficient training, extreme turnover and management’s refusal to recognize the union is putting the lives of residents and the safety of workers at risk. […]

Memory care workers demand a union at Springfield’s The Rawlin 

Workers at the The Rawlin, a memory care facility owned by Onelife, delivered a petition to management on Monday, demanding immediate recognition of their union and expedited contract negotiations to save residents’ lives. The Rawlin facility has an active COVID-19 outbreak with 47 confirmed cases and six deaths. “We are constantly working short,” said Summer […]

Interested in Becoming a CNA? Long-Term CareWorks Is Now Taking CNA Applicants

Interested in advancing your career in the nursing industry? Long-Term CareWorks is now taking applicants for its March 2021 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Apprenticeship! Learn more at longtermcareworks.org/cna-apprenticeship. Details Long-Term CareWorks is sponsored by SEIU 503 and 5 employers representing over 40 skilled nursing facilities across Oregon to provide you with safe, reliable training and […]

Higher Ed Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

Homecare/Personal Support Worker Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

State Worker Bargaining Team 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract.

Sign up for OregonSaves, homecare workers new retirement plan

Nursing Home Worker Bargaining 2023

In 2023, nursing home workers are bargaining a new contract that covers wages, benefits, and workplace conditions like safety, PPE, staffing and more. Meet your 2023 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your […]

Higher Ed Bargaining 2021

Meet your 2021 bargaining team SEIU 503 is a member-run union. Members elect a bargaining team of their peers every two years. With legal, negotiation and logistical support from union staff, your bargaining team fights to make sure your priorities are reflected in the final contract. Learn more. In 2021, workers at all seven public […]

State Worker Bargaining 2021

In 2021, state employees bargained a new contract that covers wages, benefits, and workplace conditions like safety, telework and more. As of July 16th, the State reached a Tentative Agreement with big victories for State workers. This contract was subsequently ratified by voting members. The Bargaining campaign Read the full State Contract and Draft Salary […]

Oregon’s 2021 Legislative Session Starts Today: Here’s What You Need to Know

After a security delay, the Oregon Legislature convenes today to begin the 2021 “long session.” Despite the pandemic’s impact on the economy, our state is in a position where we can invest in services and build back an economy that works for all Oregonians. Here are the key issues:  State budget. SEIU members are making […]

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Homecare & Personal Support Refresher Training

SEIU 503 homecare and personal support workers have fought hard for access to excellent training. Carewell SEIU 503 Training, a partner of SEIU 503, delivers training to care providers to ensure you have the tools and skills to perform your job with confidence and safety. Starting this fall, 12 hours of refresher training will be […]

The Provider Time Capture (PTC) Project is bringing a new way to capture time this summer!

Right now, the PTC Project Team is continuing design of the DCI EVV Solution, which will replace paper vouchers in late summer of 2021. Home Care Workers and Personal Care Attendants: Please take a moment to update your contact information with the OHCC Registry and your local AAA/APD office to ensure you receive critical PTC updates. Consumers (If […]

Challenging, Extraordinary, and Fearful Times

By Mike Powers    To my Union family,    In September SEIU 503 members from around Oregon voted to make me the next President of our Union. Thank you. I am excited and humbled. I am already working with members and staff to build on our successes for working families and face the challenges ahead.  […]

Benton County COVID-19 Vaccine Information

***Español a continuación*** This information was provided by the County Health Department. COVID-19 vaccinations are underway in Benton County due to a partnership between Samaritan Health Services and Benton County Health Department. Beginning Monday, January 11, 2021, COVID-19 vaccines will be administered to individuals that fall within the Phase 1a groups, as identified by Oregon Health Authority (OHA) […]

Morrow County COVID Vaccination Opportunities for Homecare/Personal Support Workers

A MESSAGE TO SEIU 503 HCW/PSWs FROM MORROW COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT (January 8, 2021): We have started to receive more COVID-19 vaccine for Morrow County and are doing our best to distribute that vaccine in an organized and equitable manner, but we need your help! Please review the information below and let us know if […]

Kaiser now scheduling COVID vaccinations for Homecare/Personal Support Workers!

Kaiser now scheduling COVID vaccinations for Homecare/Personal Support Workers!

HOMECARE AND PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKERS: based on your job classification, you may be eligible for COVID-19 vaccination. Currently, to receive a COVID vaccination from Kaiser Permanente, you must be a Kaiser Permanente member. The vaccine is currently being administered to people who meet Phase 1a eligibility as defined by the Oregon Health Authority. Individuals in […]

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County COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics

Updated: April 19, 2021 All Oregonians over the age of 16 are eligible to receive a vaccine.  Portland Metro Region OHSU COVID Vaccine Clinics Go the the OHSU appointment website, scroll down to the vaccine tool section, and click “check for appointments” to access appointments. New appointments are added Monday and Thursday mornings at 9 […]

Welcome to the I Am Essential bargaining conference!

As Oregon rebuilds from the crises of 2020, our state budget must recognize and fully fund the essential work we perform. As a majority of our members head into bargaining we’ll discuss how we use bargaining campaigns to highlight the essential work we do and win the best contracts possible to support the services we […]

Expanded Family Leave Expires December 31. What you need to know.

This information is for employees at State agencies and may not be accurate for other SEIU Members.  Update: On December 30, we signed a new letter of agreement – a short-term agreement focused on a particular issue – to expand the paid leave options we have available to us in early 2021. Here are the key […]

Eastern Oregon University Awards President Massive Bonus Amid Staffing Layoffs

While the Covid-19 pandemic hit all of Oregon hard, it was particularly difficult for those of us working at Oregon’s seven State universities. Because in-person classes were suspended, delayed, and minimized, many of the essential workers who keep our colleges running were laid off, had their hours reduced, or were put into inactive status. We […]

2020: Inspiration in Crisis

by Melissa Unger, Executive Director, and Mike Powers, President, SEIU Local 503   What a year. We can’t remember a time when our union faced so many challenges or when we’ve been more inspired by the dedication and hard work of SEIU 503 members. Whether we are caring for the elderly during a pandemic, fighting wildfires, […]

SEIU Releases Vaccine Principles, Pushes for Equity and Education

On December 18, the SEIU International Executive Board, representing locals around the country, issued a set of vaccine principles and encouraged essential workers to get the vaccine when it’s available to them. For reliable information tailored to SEIU 503 members, click here. “Essential workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic are demanding to be […]

More nursing home workers speak out about COVID-19 outbreak in St Helens, Oregon

Check out this video update from Annika Angulo-Bennett, a Nursing Assistant at Meadow Park in St. Helens: Meadow Park workers have been sounding the alarm about inadequate safety precautions around COVID in their facility. Long ignored, both residents and workers are now sick with COVID due to the negligence of their management. Workers are demanding […]

Oregon’s Budget Process 101

The State of Oregon operates on a biennial budget cycle – meaning a new budget is created and passed every two years. As you can see above, it’s a long process with a lot of different steps and stakeholders. Right now, we’re in the period between the Governor’s Budget becoming public, and the start of […]

Take Action to Improve Caregiving in Oregon

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Victory on Late Paychecks: State to pay late fees, overdrafts for Homecare/PSW

Thousands of homecare workers took action and spoke out. The State listened, and will pay to cover the cost of their mistake. Last week, Department of Human Services management left more than 7,300 SEIU homecare workers without their paychecks on the day before Thanksgiving. Members of our union were unable to buy what they needed […]

2021-2022 SEIU 503 Committee Appointment Process is Underway

The appointment process for 2021-2022 SEIU 503 committees is underway. Joining a committee is a great way to get more involved in the work of SEIU 503. Through committees, members come together in many different ways to lead our union, run operations, and advise the Board of Directors. A brief description of each committee’s function […]

SEIU Local 503 Committee Interest Forms for Child Care members

SEIU Committee Interest Forms are due by 12/15. See synopsis of our union’s standing Committees below. Reach out to your Organizer, Ricardo Varela, if interested in an appointment to any of the following: Rules Committee  promotes consistency in the union’s governing documents, makes recommendations to the Board, and works with sublocals to ensure governing documents […]

Our work in 2020 is not done -- take action today!

As an eventful 2020 finally draws to a close, we need Congress and the Oregon Legislature to take action before the end of the year to win good contracts next year and avoid disaster for millions of people across our state. Despite a decline in revenue due to the economic impact of COVID-19, Governor Kate […]

2021 Bargaining Conference: I Am Essential

In 2021, the essential workers in our union will be critical to Oregon’s recovery from the pandemic and the recession. The 2021 Bargaining Conference marks the official kick off of the fight to win great new contracts. Agenda 10:00 – 11:05 AM – Opening session – Click here to join (password: 503bargain) Presentations: Introduction from […]

SEIU 503 Committees and Caucuses

Bylaws Article XVII – COMMITTEES Section 1. The President shall appoint the chairs and members of Standing Committees of the Union, Standing Committees of the Board, Special Committees, and Special Councils subject to ratification by the Board, except as otherwise specified in these Bylaws. Appointments shall be made only after the Union announces available committee […]

Committees

Standing Committees of the SEIU 503 Board of Directors

Statement from SEIU 503 AFRAM Caucus on the 6-month anniversary of the killing of George Floyd

The following statement is from SEIU 503 African/African American Caucus (AFRAM) on the 6-month anniversary of the killing of George Floyd: It’s been 6 months since George Floyd was killed and what have you seen? Bail funds, crowdfunding, and a lot of others raising millions to support Black Lives Matter, but where were they when […]

Sarah Ray

Contact: rays@seiu503.org

Rebecca Hernandez

Contact: hernandezr@seiu503.org

Andrea Clark

Contact: clarka@seiu503.org

Lisa Walker

Contact: walkerl@seiu503.org

Angie Ceja Ochoa

Contact: cejaochoaa@seiu503.org

Malcolm Scott

Contact: scottmalcolm@seiu503.org

Ehren Vaughn

Contact: vaughne@seiu503.org

Anastasia Godsey

Contact: godseya@seiu503.org

Colleen Martin-Low

Contact: martinlowc@seiu503.org

Stephanie Prentiss

Contact: prentisss@seiu503.org

Cristina Aviles

Contact: avilesc@seiu503.org

Guilermo Romero

Contact: romerog@seiu503.org

Ivonne Rivero

Contact: Riveroi@seiu503.org

Mariia Stein

Contact: steinm@seiu503.org

Renee Watson-Taylor

Contact: watsontaylorr@seiu5oe.org

Thuy Huyen

Contact: huyent@seiu503.org

What’s Most Important This Holiday Season

Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect on what we have been able to protect in 2020 in spite of many setbacks and challenges. With the rising COVID cases, the continued economic anxiety and many unknowns ahead, we need to come together with our union to make a difference. We have made a lot of progress […]

Health care open enrollment - what you need to know!

Medical coverage is more important than ever. Carewell SEIU 503 can help! Visit Carewellseiu503.org or call 1-844-503-7348 to enroll or reenroll. The deadline is December 15! Covid-19 has made health insurance more important than ever. Yet across the country, many homecare and personal support workers don’t have access to healthcare. Essential workers deserve better! Fortunately, […]

Tryna Muilenburg

Contact: muilenburgt@seiu503.org

Mark Thorsden

Contact: throdsenm@seiu503.org

Jeff Singer

Contact: singerj@seiu503.org

Joy Vegar

Contact: vegarj@seiu503.org

Lindie Nelson

Contact: dawsonm@seiu503.org

Michelle Dawson

Contact: dawsonm@seiu503.org

Stacy Heath

Contact: heaths@seiu503.org

Union Members at Western Oregon University Fighting for Safe Working Conditions

Western Oregon University (WOU) Sublocal 082 union members have been facing tough working conditions since the start of the pandemic. A lack of communication, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), cleaning supplies, and layoffs have impacted dozens of workers. WOU Sublocal 082 SEIU members have organized in response. When the WOU administration laid off dozens of workers, […]

Felipa Rojas De Torres

Contact: rojasdetorresf@seiu503.org

Bernardo Tuma

Contact: tumab@seiu503.org

Paula Peña

Contact: penap@seiu503.org

Oregon Covid-19 freeze starts Wednesday

Covid-19 cases are spiking across Oregon, and our nation. Hospital beds are running low and we are on a trajectory to not have sufficient resources to care for people who are ill or test and track those who may be. Acting now is essential. Accordingly, Governor Kate Brown has ordered a statewide “freeze” starting on […]

2020 General Election brought major wins for SEIU 503 members

The 2020 General Election brought major wins for SEIU 503 members. After a prolonged effort to count every vote, the presidential race was called for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on Saturday, November 7th, 4 days after the election. Electing a pro-worker President will have a profound impact on SEIU 503 members. We’ll go from […]

2020 General Election brought major wins for SEIU 503 members

The 2020 General Election brought major wins for SEIU 503 members. After a prolonged effort to count every vote, the presidential race was called for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on Saturday, November 7th, 4 days after the election. Electing a pro-worker President will have a profound impact on SEIU 503 members. We’ll go from […]

Petition

Veterans Day 2020 - Honoring SEIU 503 Members who Served our Nation

Whether we are providing care for people in their homes, supporting critical public services and education, or fighting wildfires, service is at the heart of our work as SEIU members. Today, we wish to honor those among us who have also served our nation. Less than 1-percent of our population serves in the military, but […]

Our Staff Structure

SEIU 503 is staffed by a dedicated group of organizers, operations specialists, communicators and legal experts to help member-leaders bargain great contracts, represent members and grow our union. Download our Org Chart for information on the staff structure.

SEIU 503 Statement On The 2020 Election

As of 9:45. p.m. on Tuesday, November 3rd, the first wave of races in the 2020 General Election have been decided, and SEIU 503 members wish to congratulate the pro-worker candidates who have won and urge patience and caution to ensure that every vote is counted to determine who wins the presidential election. SEIU 503 […]

Code of Conduct for SEIU 503 Events/Meetings/Communications

There is a prohibition against harassment and other exclusionary behavior. This includes, but is not limited to: Violent threats or language, signs, symbols, or images directed against another person Discriminatory jokes and language, signs, symbols, or images Ableist jokes and language, signs, symbols, or images Sexually explicit or violent behavior and language, signs, symbols, or […]

Homecare & Personal Support Worker Steward Applicaitons

Please use the following forms to apply to be a steward. Note, these only apply to Homecare or Personal Support Workers. Other SEIU 503 members should contact the Member Assistance Center for additional information. Local 99 steward application English Local 99 steward application_Spanish Local 99 steward application_Russian Local 99 steward application_Chinese Local 99 steward application_Korean […]

Renew Or Enroll Into Medical Coverage For 2021!

Throughout the nation, many homecare and personal support workers do not have access to medical benefits. But here in Oregon—where homecare and personal support workers came together in their union to negotiate benefits with the State of Oregon—many care providers have access to health coverage! Please see details below. Get covered for 2021! Open Enrollment […]

Executive Director Melissa Unger Tells Healthcare Industry To Put People Over Profits

SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger spoke this week at State Of Reform Oregon where she delivered a critically important message: When it comes to our health we can no longer put profits over people. Oregon has made a lot of progress on healthcare. 95 percent of us have a health insurance plan. But that’s […]

SEIU Podcast: Politics Episode with Senator Jeff Merkley and Candidate Deb Patterson

On the latest episode of Stronger Together, the SEIU Local 503 podcast, we delve into the world of politics by interviewing two SEIU endorsed candidates. With a big election coming up next month, we wanted to bring you conversations with two political candidates that have been endorsed by our local. Our CAPE Board, which is […]

How to Vote in the November 3rd Election

People across the country have the opportunity to cast their ballot and elect the people that will represent their vision for government in the November 3rd election. This is an incredible responsibility that we all share, and as public employees, we have an even more important role since we are guardians of public services. This […]

Care providers support Biden's caregiving plan

The following piece was published in the Eugene Register Guard on October 19. Caring about caregiving We’ve all heard a lot about Joe Biden and Donald Trump over the last few weeks. But there’s one issue that isn’t getting as much attention as it deserves: caregiving. About 70,000 Oregonians — roughly the population of Medford […]

I Am Essential: 2021 Contract Bargaining

SEIU 503 members do the essential jobs that keep Oregon working. We’ve been called “heroes” during the pandemic. We risked our lives during the wildfires. We provided lifelines to families hit by the recession.   When we bargained our new contract, we demanded the respect we deserve and recognition for the essential public services we provide. […]

African American/African Caucus Hosts Day of Self Care and Reflection

  This is a day of protest. A protest against a system that has and continues to cause mental and physical harm to members of our union every day. Please join the SEIU 503 African American/African Caucus on Friday, October 23 for a day of self-reflection, healing and education about the impact of racism in […]

Oregon Supported Living Program Wins New Contract

Frontline health workers are some of the most critical essential employees in Oregon, and are often the people who bear the brunt of particularly difficult public health crises like the Coronavirus pandemic. The employees at the Oregon Supported Living Project (OSLP), a group-home that supports clients experiencing disabilities, had been fighting hard over an economic […]

EVV/Provider Time Capture Engagement Sessions for AAA/APD Staff, Consumers and Providers

Provider Time Capture Stakeholder Engagement Sessions for AAA/APD Staff, Consumers and Providers are approaching at the end of October! The Provider Time Capture (PTC) Project will provide a way for Homecare Workers and Personal Support Workers to electronically capture their time worked in real-time to meet the federal requirements for Electronic Visit Verification. DHS would […]

SEIU Takes Key Step Toward Higher Standards For Homecare and Personal Support Workers

Together in union, homecare and personal support workers have made huge gains. But we still face problems. Many of us feel disrespected by leadership at DHS, and rightly so. This summer, SEIU members took our next big step forward by passing the Unions For All/Long-Term Care resolution. The resolution – which was voted on by […]

Meet your newly elected Statewide Officers!

SEIU 503 is a democratic, member-run union. In 2020 we have elected more than 700 leaders to a variety of positions to lead our union. The people in these roles will shape our work over the next two years as we bargain strong contracts, represent workers, and grow. So we’d like to introduce you to […]

The Election Will Determine If We’re Fighting Cuts Or Fighting For A Better Future

“Why is our union involved in politics?” Members of all political stripes often ask about our union’s political activity. In 2020, the answer is crystal clear.  Due to the pandemic, Oregon is facing an unpredictable economic outlook and a significant shortfall in our state budget. Without additional federal funding or new revenue, state and local […]

Make a change at work

Are you fed up with short staffing, poor training, low wages and other problems on the job? Are you sick of being ignored by management?

The Election Will Determine If We’re Fighting Cuts Or Fighting For A Better Future

“Why is our union involved in politics?” Members of all political stripes often ask about our union’s political activity. In 2020, the answer is crystal clear.  Due to the pandemic, Oregon is facing an unpredictable economic outlook and a significant  shortfall in our state budget.  Without additional federal funding or new revenue state agencies like […]

Jackson County Employees Win Victory Against Abusive Management

Each summer, the “asphalt crew” with Jackson County in Southern Oregon heads out into the heat to repair the roads we depend on each day, working with boiling hot tar upwards of 400 degrees. This is the type of hard work that public employees in Oregon do, taking on risks to ensure that we can […]

SEIU members sign “letter of agreement” with State on wildfire impacts

This year has been difficult for most of us, and this is especially true for the thousands of Oregonians affected by these unprecedented wildfires. Many people have lost their homes or have been displaced, and our communities will be rebuilding for years to come. Our union has come together to fight for those most affected […]

SEIU members sign “letter of agreement” with State on wildfire impacts

This year has been difficult for most of us, and this is especially true for the thousands of Oregonians affected by these unprecedented wildfires. Many people have lost their homes or have been displaced, and our communities will be rebuilding for years to come. Our union has come together to fight for those most affected […]

State employees get a raise!

The power of last year’s bargaining campaign and contract victory has continued to carry us through 2020, keeping wages high and benefits intact. This month we are now seeing our next Cost of Living Adjustment, giving us a full three-percent increase as of October 1st (which will be paid out on November 1st). This is […]

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Membership Advantages Open Enrollment

2020 Statewide Officer and Board of Directors Election Results

Publication Date: September 29, 2020 The following candidates were certified to have won election on September 29, 2020. Statewide Officers Executive Director: Melissa Unger President: Michael Powers Vice President – Care Provider and Other Sectors: Rebecca Sandoval Vice President – Public Sector: Andrea Kennedy-Smith Secretary: Theodora Ko Thompson Treasurer: Mary Stewart   Board of Directors […]

LETTER OF AGREEMENT, ARTICLE 47: CHANGE IN CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS

The Universities and Union will re-establish the Classification and Compensation Advisory Committee (“CCAC”) comprised of comprised of four (4) campus representatives from management and four (4) classified campus employee representatives selected by the Union by no later than March 1, 2020. The CCAC will be jointly led by the USSE’s Director of Labor Relations Services […]

SEIU 503 Members Provide $58,000 to Workers Impacted by Oregon Wildfires

Over Labor Day weekend strong winds swept through Oregon, transforming already hot and dry conditions in the cascades into a tinderbox. Within days wildfires spread quickly across the region causing unprecedented damage, loss of life, and upending the lives of tens of thousands.  Since 2017, our Union has operated a Wildfire Assistance Fund to help […]

DCBS Local 440 Election Results, September 2020

The Elections Committee of DCBS Local 440 met on Wednesday, September 16th to count the ballots for the SEIU Sub-Local 440 Rerun Election. We appreciate your patience and recognize that this election didn’t run as smoothly as it has in the past, but are proud that we were able to complete the process. As a […]

November 3rd is a Bargaining Session for Every SEIU 503 Member

“Why is our union involved in politics?” Members of all political stripes often ask about our union’s political activity. Sometimes the connection between who is elected to public office and the contracts we bargain for is difficult to see. In 2020, it’s crystal clear.  Due to the pandemic, Oregon is facing an unprecedented $4.4 billion […]

2020 Continues to Show us the Value of Public Services

Our world is changing. Services like public health and firefighting are indispensable. Do we have the infrastructure we need to survive the next crisis? September 14, 2020  In March of 2020 the coronavirus swept through Oregon, resulting in an unprecedented public health crisis and a recession. Hundreds of thousands of Oregonians turned to unemployment benefits, […]

Dignity, HCW/PSW bi-weekly update September 11, 2020

Sept 4 Homecare Day of Action United Care Providers Across the Country To start this Labor Day Weekend, care providers all over Oregon and across the nation held actions reminding passersby and elected officials that we are an essential piece of both the labor movement and the infrastructure fighting the pandemic, and we need to […]

Sublocal 206 Interim Election Voter Guide

Member Wins $300,000 Settlement for Workplace Discrimination

Our union is a powerful association of workers fighting to protect each other from bad working conditions and to ensure that our careers stay intact. We often use the power of the contract to confront abuses from management, but sometimes those violations are so egregious that we take on legal measures outside of contract enforcement. […]

COVID-19 Basics Webinar

Carewell SEIU 503 Training is excited to offer a new training for homecare and personal support workers in Oregon. Join us for one of our COVID-19 Basics webinars to learn more about how to navigate COVID-19 in your day-to-day work.  In this course you will learn how to: Explain the COVID-19 pandemic and how it […]

Homecare Day of Action United Care Providers Across the Country

On September 4th, Homecare and Personal Support Workers all across the country participated in the “Homecare Day of Action” to raise the profile of frontline care providers. State Homecare and Personal Support Workers provide long-term care supports directly in people’s homes. We have been on the frontline of the pandemic, staying vulnerable to the Coronavirus […]

PEBB Open Enrollment Begins in October

Open enrollment for healthcare and other benefits offered through PEBB is in October. Open enrollment is when you can change your healthcare plan or sign up for new benefits. This year, open enrollment is optional due to the pandemic, however we strongly encourage you to mark your calendar and make time to review your plans. […]

PERS IAP Adjustments You Should Know About in September

Retirement Earlier this month the Oregon Supreme Court upheld cuts to our retirement plans that legislators passed in 2019. The legislation, Senate Bill 1049, impacts your Individual Account Program (IAP). It does not impact your pension or any contributions you make to the Oregon Savings Growth Plan. For more information, please read our FAQ. There are two related […]

Labor Day Message from SEIU 503

This weekend, as we celebrate Labor Day, SEIU 503 members across Oregon are reflecting on the victories we’ve won and the challenges that lie ahead.  Over the past two years, most workers represented by SEIU 503 have chosen to remain in Union. By doing so, we have strengthened our position at the bargaining table and […]

Submission Received

Thank you for reaching out. An organizer will be in touch with you soon to learn more about your workplace. In the meantime, we encourage you to learn more about SEIU. Check out our latest victories. Or learn more about what we believe in. SEIU 503 is Oregon’s long-term care union, representing 30,000 long-term care […]

Our Commitment to Racial Justice

SEIU is committed to creating a just society for all people. We recognize that not every member of our union can move through our communities without fearing for their lives. The senseless killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd do not reflect who we want to be as a country. In order to […]

OregonSaves: Homecare and PSW Retirement

Español | русский |  简体中文 | Tiếng Việt   Need to set up your account with OregonSaves. Click here to get started. Or call SEIU 503’s Member Assistance Center for help: 1-844-503-SEIU (7348).   OregonSaves. A groundbreaking retirement plan for Oregon’s homecare and personal support workers. What is OregonSaves? In 2019, homecare and personal support workers […]

Member Advantage Spotlight: The Columbia Employee Store!

Summer is here and there is no better time to get outside and take advantage of the great outdoors! The Columbia Employee Store is stocked with our latest season’s arrivals from our family of brands to help prepare you for all of your summer adventures. Download the promotional flyer and bring it with you to […]

$500 “Relief Checks” Available to Oregonians Who Have Lost Their Jobs or Income

The last few months have been hard for all Oregonians and union members, but it has been especially difficult for those dealing with layoffs as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of us have been left without work as businesses and services shut down, and the budget shortfall from the crisis has only exacerbated […]

Dignity Newsletter August 2020

August 2020 SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION LOCAL 503 SEIU General Council. Stronger Representation, Growth and Racial Justice. SEIU 503 Members Set A Bold Agenda for 2020-2021. On August 2, while COVID-19 cases surged through Oregon, several hundred SEIU 503 members joined a virtual meeting to do something old, in a very new way. Read More […]

WHAT MATTERS? A poem

WHAT MATTERS? I turned from talking to my neighbor, a nurse . . . six fellow-nurses infected, the heat of face shields and heavy gowns, a difficulty at rest room breaks, rest room breaks difficult to get . . . glanced at the troublesome PC, anxiety about the down-internet; can’t use Bill Pay; need to […]

Stronger Representation, Growth and Racial Justice: SEIU 503 Members Set A Bold Agenda for 2021 and 2022 

  At the 2020 General Council, delegates set us on a bold new path to strengthen representation, grow our union, and meet the challenges that will define our lives for years to come.  By Steve Demarest, August 17, 2020 On August 2, while COVID-19 cases surged through Oregon, several hundred SEIU 503 members joined a […]

General Council 2020: Official Resolution Results!

This year, General Council delegates gathered virtually to deliberate and vote on resolutions that will chart our path forward over the next two years. Results from both rounds of voting are included below. Committee Resolutions (August 12) R2 – 01 Sublocal Officer Status under the LMRDA in the Public Sector ✅Passed 211 Yes; 43 No; […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Malcolm Scott, ODOT

[This candidate did not submit a statement or photo]

2020 Special Session 2.0: It wasn’t special, but it was a session

The Oregon Legislature convened yesterday for a 1-day special legislative session, where the current budget was balanced and a few technical fixes to unemployment, criminal justice reform, and the Legislature’s harassment policy were passed. Cuts to agency budgets were less than we feared a few months ago when the Governor announced her allotment cuts thanks […]

Final Committee Resolutions for General Council 2020

From August 4 -6 General Council committees met virtually to debate, amend and finalize these resolutions. Their recommendations to the full General council are summarized below. Click on the title to view the committee report, resolution text and pro/con statements. Delegates will vote on the resolutions on August 11 and 12. R2 – 01 Sublocal […]

Legislature to address budget shortfall next week

As we await the federal government to decide on the next round of COVID-19 relief, the Oregon Legislature will convene for a special session on Monday, August 10th to address a projected shortfall in the current budget.  Current Revenue Shortfall: $2,698M Ending Fund Balance: $1,115M Current Budget Gap: $1,583M Cuts to agency budgets should be […]

Oregon Supreme Court upholds public employee retirement cut

This morning the Oregon Supreme Court denied our petition to overturn SB 1049, impacting public employee retirement benefits.  Statement from SEIU 503 Executive Director Melissa Unger This is a disappointing loss with real impacts on thousands of workers’ lives and future plans. We will continue to work with our PERS coalition partners to figure out […]

SEIU 503 Members at Universities Win Work Share fix

In early July SEIU 503 members sent a letter to Governor Kate Brown demanding a fix to how the Oregon Employment Department was handling workshare. This week, an important part of the fix was made!  This should have happened a long time ago, but we are still excited to see members’ activism have a positive […]

Statewide Officer Election Campaign Speeches

In lieu of the traditional candidate speeches at General Council, candidates for Statewide Officer positions have submitted videos to go alongside our virtual General Council event. Executive Director Melissa Unger Barbara Evans President Mike Powers Avery Horton Vice President Andrea Kennedy-Smith – Public Services Seat Rebecca Sandoval – Care Provider Seat Ibrahim Coulibaly – Public […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Emily Wang, Oregon Health Authority

[This candidate has not submitted a statement or photo]

Candidate for Statewide Executive Director: Barbara Evans, Homecare

To ALL my Brothers and Sisters of Local SEIU 503-I want you first off to know that you are in my heart and prayers everyday for what you are going through right now and I want you to know that I HAVE A PLAN. It began with the Heart of my fellow Homecare workers back […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Evan Berss, Department of Human Services

I’m choosing to run for the Board of Directors so that I can get the experience I need to help make lasting change throughout SEIU. I have spearheaded the formation of various Steward Meetings, was vice-chair of my Sublocal briefly, and take part on numerous LMC’s all in order to hear the issues of our […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Tryna Muilenburg, Personal Support Worker

I am a personal support worker for my own adult daughter who has a significant disability. I have been a union member since 2013 and have attended local union meetings for caregivers since then. I was twice voted a delegate to General Council. I participated in rallies in Salem, met with state representatives about Union […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Lindie Nelson, Oregon State Hospital

As an employee of Oregon State Hospital, I have been a member of SEIU 503 since 2014. During that time, I saw many positive changes within my workplace as a result of the strong presence of SEIU stewards and officers. Because of this, I was moved to become a steward myself and was recently elected […]

Candidate for Director: Paula Peña, Department of Education

Paulita Peña (Paula), she has been a public employee for 15 years. Growing up in a migrant camp while living mostly in the Willamette Valley. Both of her parents found stable employment at ArgiPac, where they became union members and stewards for Teamsters, inspiring Paula’s commitment to unions. One of Paula’s earliest memories of union […]

Candidate for Statewide VP - CP: Nannette 'D' Carter-Jafri, Homecare

Fellow members nominated me Nannette “D” Carter-Jafri for the Statewide 2020-2022 VP position, because I represent innovative change and fairness.  As VP, I’ll work closely with union members in sublocals across the state: Addus (98), Adult Foster Homes (858 – AFH), Child Care Homes (96 – CC), Homecare (99), and Nursing Homes (97).  I know […]

Candidate for Director: Carla Hodges, Homecare

Hi my name is Carla Hodges; I am running for Homecare Council Director, Homecare Chief Steward and the Bargaining Team, to help Homecare Workers and Personal Support Workers to recruit union members so we can build a stronger union. I attended Steward and leadership training. I also attended homecare retreat, board of director summit meeting, […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Florence Renee Watson-Taylor, Homecare

Florence Renee Watson-Taylor REGION 6 DIRECTOR 3 “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.” We live in a nation that was founded on racism and we must work tirelessly to eradicate this sickness. I am passionate, and motivated to advance change as I am challenged to be […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Chuck Porter, Oregon State Hospital

[This candidate has not submitted a statement or photo]

Candidate for Director: Rhonda Morgan, Department of Human Services

My name is Rhonda Morgan and I’m asking for your vote and the opportunity to serve as Director for Region 1, representing members who live in Marion and Polk Counties. I currently serve as assistant director for this same region and would welcome the responsibility of representing you in the Director role. As Assistant Director, […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Serena McCurdy, Personal Support Worker

Hello my name is Serena Mccurdy, I wanted to start by saying , I feel honored to be nominated for this position. I really have enjoyed being a part of SEIU Local 503. I’m PSW in Columbia County and since I became a union member I feel that my work is really valued, and being […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Angelica Ceja-Ochoa, Oregon Health Authority

I have been privileged with helping as a steward at OSH, volunteering as a page at General Council in 2018 & this year I am an elected delegate. I am part of the CAPE Committee, along with being the co-chair region 5 of the CAPE Council, I am also on the Staff Screening Committee. I’ve […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Mariia Stein, Department of Human Services

Hi! My name is Mariia, I started working for the state of Oregon 7/2016, and have been an active member of SEIU since the beginning. I have always been dedicated to the empowerment, betterment and justice of those around me (and myself) which is why when I for the first time in my career had […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: John Grimm, Adult Foster Care

I AM THE SEIU 503 LOCAL 858 PRESIDENT AND HAVE BEEN A DIRECTOR AND AM WILL IN TO SUPPORT A NEW DIRECTOR AS THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR.

Candidate for Director: Max Brown, Department of Human Services

I have worked for DHS for 15 years and currently serve as Assistant Director for Region 1. I served as Director from 2010-2014. Our members have faced many challenges recently; the Janus decision, the attacks on PERS with SB 1049, and this year, the covid-19 epidemic and the struggle against racial injustice and institutional racism. […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Mark Thordsen, Department of Human Services

I’ve been a permanency caseworker in Klamath Falls for 4 years and a steward for about a year. I have also been a part of a few statewide projects including the A&M workgroup which has morphed into the child welfare partnership with management. I will be a voice for our public sector employees and want […]

Candidate for Director: Jeff Singer, Prestige

Hello I’m Jeff Singer. I’m a believer in being fair across the board. My role as a CNA for the ten pass years. I have seen a lot of highs & lows in this line of work. I believe there needs to be focus on organize structure for the better good! Thank you for your […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Ivonne Rivero, Homecare

My name is Ivonne Rivero. I have been working as Homecare provider since 2015. I have 5 years on the job. The last two years, I have been working and learning about our union and the many benefits of being unionized. My passion for community building, for justice and equality are the main motivators for […]

Candidate for Statewide Secretary: Theo Ko Thompson, University of Oregon

I humbly ask for your vote, for the trust and honor to continue to serve as Statewide Secretary. I am a proud member of SEIU for 20+ years; a CAPE member; a Union leader/activist on the Board, at the University of Oregon, a C.A.T, and a steward since 2010. I am Asian and multilingual. I […]

Candidate for Director: Darrah Young, Department of Human Services

I have been an active member of our union for over a year, and am serving as a General Council member and Bargaining delegate for the DAS contract. I am someone who recognizes the unique situation many of our members are in living in the Multnomah area, an area very different from the rest Oregon. […]

Candidate for Director: Stephanie Prentiss, University of Oregon

My name is Stephanie Prentiss, and I am seeking your vote to serve on the SEIU 503 Board of Directors as Director of Higher Education. I currently serve as President of Sub Local 085 for the University of Oregon that is made up of 1600 Classified Staff. I have worked at the University of Oregon […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Taylor Bacon, Parry Center

Our Union is the BEST! As Assistant Director for PNP, I want to support the Director in resuscitating the PNP council and in any new ideas that they may have. I want to include Rural members that are often left behind. We need to meet in rural areas or provide access to digital meetings for […]

Candidate for Director: Shaun Notdurft, Oregon Supported Living Program

I am a DSP at OSLP, and have been for 27 years. I helped form our union local (902) back in 1996, and I have been active as President, Bargaining Delegate, General Council Delegate, Chief Steward, and active member ever since, including serving on a few committees. I also worked for 503 for about five […]

Candidate for Statewide Executive Director: Melissa Unger, SEIU Local 503

Melissa Unger for SEIU Local 503 Executive Director I have been part of SEIU for 12 years, and had the privilege of being our union’s Executive Director for the past two years. In that time, our union has delivered life-changing wages, access to health care, and retirement security for tens of thousands of Oregonians. We […]

Candidate for Director: Deanna Boylan, Department of Human Services

In these difficult times “we” brothers and sisters are faced with many challenges, I Deanna Boylan am asking for your vote as Board Director of Region 3 Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Josephine counties. Members who have worked with me over the years can attest to both my passion and involvement in policy issues, advocacy, and […]

Candidate for Director: Danielle Droppers, Oregon Health Authority

Hello, I’m Danielle Droppers, and I’m running for one of the Region 6 Board of Directors seats. I’ve been an SEIU member for over six years, and a steward for four years, part of the Citizen Action for Political Education (CAPE) Council since 2017, and recently served on the Diversity Equity and Inclusion General Council […]

Candidate for Director: Shawn Holliday, Oregon Health Authority

My name is Shawn Holliday- I am currently the Assistant Director on the SEIU 503 Board of Directors for the South Valley Region 2 which is the Linn, Benton and Lane counties. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our fellow board members over the past 2 years and wish to continue my work as the […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Lisa Walker, Linn County

My name is Lisa Walker and I work for Linn County sublocal 390. The last five years, I have been active in our Union as a member leader filling multiple roles as president, steward, chief steward, bargaining team delegate, and general council delegate. I have worked hard to educate and lead our members, fellow leaders, […]

Candidate for Statewide VP - CP: Eileen Ordway, Homecare

VOTE Eileen Ordway Client-Employed Providers Vice-President of SEIU 503. 503 wasn’t there when I needed them. I am running to make sure 503 is there when you need them. I want our union to champion workers. I believe our union faces challenges requiring us to be informed advocates as we go forward. In 2020, we […]

Candidate for Statewide VP - CP: Rebecca Sandoval, Homecare

SEIU 503 is such a strong and dynamic organization that we have been very successful in lifting up workers, and winning strong contracts. We have built, maintained, and continually grown a huge group of workers focused on building a better Oregon, not just for ourselves, but for the entire state that we serve. When circumstances […]

Candidate for Director: Stacy Heath, Addus

Hi, my name is Stacy. I’ve been a home caregiver and a union member for 7 years. I’m currently Vice President SEIU 503 Local 98. As a bargaining unit member, we won a hard and rewarding contract in 2019, one of the best contracts Addus has seen. I co-facilitate biweekly meetings with leadership officers, to […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Ehren Vaughn, Employment Department

I have been a state employee and union member for 10 years. I am proud to serve as a union steward to assist my coworkers and maintain a fair and safe workplace. Within the union, I have been a general council delegate, served on the executive board for the Employment Department sublocal, and developed union/community […]

Candidate for Director: Anastasia Godsey, Department of Human Services

I have been an SEIU 503 member since 2004, organized successful State-wide campaign to get selective pay increase for APSS in 2017, and participated in MLDP NEO and Bargaining waves in 2019. Currently I am a local union steward in Hillsboro APD. I was elected as a General Council Delegate and a Bargaining Delegate in […]

Candidate for Director: Joy'e Willman

I’m asking for your vote because I would like to continue working on issues important to members. Having been on the team that created Homecare Local 99, I know the hard work and dedication it takes to work on member issues and improve working conditions for members across Oregon. I want to continue to fight […]

Candidate for Statewide President: Mike Powers, Department of Agriculture

There has never been a greater need for the union difference. COVID-19 has laid bare the wealth and racial disparities in our nation and our state. Now more than ever, we can come together to fight for truly living wages, green new jobs here at home, healthcare for all, and retirement security. Our union is […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Rebecca Hernandez, Avamere

I joined the Union because I wanted to help change how Assisted living workers were treated. I have been a Shop Steward for over 3 years and am now a Chain Representative as well. Since our Assisted Livings have Unionized some significant has happened but more work is needed. We need to change the entire […]

Candidate for Director: Thuy Huyen, Portland State University

After working in accounting at Portland State University for almost 18 years, my fellow members asked me to run for President of our sublocal, SEIU 89. I stepped up, filed my paperwork, and won the election in April 2020. My experience as a union member has taught me that taking on new challenges may be […]

Candidate for Director: Diana Lobo, Personal Support Worker

Having had the pleasure and privilege of serving two terms as Client Employed Provider (CEP) Sector Assistant Director on our 503 Board of Directors, I am now asking Members’ support to represent All Sectors of our Union as a Region 6 Director. During my Board terms I have served on our Civil and Human Rights […]

Candidate for Statewide Executive Director: Holly Garland, Homecare

Vote Holly Garland as Executive Director Did you join 503 because of its stance on trendy liberal social justice agendas, or because you thought 503 would get you better compensation, better working conditions and when you need help with problems at work, actual help? There is no mention of workplace safety for addition in the […]

Candidate for Director: Scott Conover, Oregon Health Authority

I am Scott Conover and being a lifelong Oregonian, I am committed to this state and to this union. I submit my candidacy for the role of Director for Region 1 on the Board of Directors. I am a Systems Analyst with the Office of Information Services (OIS), which provides Information Technology (IT) services as […]

Candidate for Director: Sonja Reagan, Personal Support Worker

This is my second term as a Council Director on Sub Local 99 Homecare Council. I’ve been a Homecare Worker for approximately fifteen years, and before that I was a Foster Parent for fifteen more, taking care of my family and others in my community. I decided to get involved with the Union to support […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Andrea Clark, Homecare

Andrea Clark – Candidate for Client Employed Care Assistant Director Local 99: Homecare Worker I’m a lifelong Oregon resident, graduate of the University of Oregon, and a long time Homecare Worker, caring for my mom. My involvement with SEIU 503 came after witnessing the many injustices and challenges that both care providers and their consumers […]

Candidate for Statewide President: Avery Horton, Homecare

VOTE AVERY HORTON 503 PRESIDENT. “ASK NOT WHAT MEMBERS CAN DO FOR 503 – ASK WHAT 503 CAN DO FOR ITS MEMBERS.” Did you join 503 because of its stance on abortion, homelessness, climate change, Black Lives Matter, immigration, social justice platforms, and liberal agendas? -OR- Did you join 503 because you thought 503 would […]

Candidate for Director: Samuel Browne, Avamere

I am looking to get a 2nd term as nursing home director, excited to begin bargaining and hopefully get huge wins for nursing homes. Want to continue building out our local and strengthening our unit as a whole to be able really make big changes. Excited to meet new leaders and I am supportive of […]

Candidate for Statewide Treasurer: Mary Stewart, Department of Revenue

My name is Mary Stewart – I am the current SEIU503 Statewide Treasurer. I was elected two years ago to the Executive Governing Team as Treasurer. My role as Treasurer has been to: Chair the Finance committee, present financial and investment reports to the Board as well as funding recommendations for approval. I also take […]

Candidate for Director: Guillermo Romero, Department of Human Services

SEIU 503 Sisters & Brothers! I’m Guillermo Romero. I work in Astoria for Child Welfare as a Social Services Specialist. I’m running for the 503 Board, Region 7. My qualifications include experience as a Social Worker for the State of Washington, a Housing Counselor for a non-profit agency, and in the private sector as an […]

Candidate for Director: Hismelia Cardier, Department of Human Services

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Candidate for Director: Mike Scott, ODOT

My name is Mike Scott and I am running for re-election for Director of the ODOT coalition. Along with being the current Director i’m also the President of ODOT local 730 and I have just recently taken a position as a Contract Specialist for the ODOT coalition. The agencies within our coalition stretch into every […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Natalie Jackson, Child Care

My name is Natalie Jackson, I am a ChildCare Provider and Union member of SEIU503 Childcare96. I am self nominating for the position of Chidcare Assistant Director. As Childcare President I consider it very important to be involved with the Board of Directors so that the SEIU503 Childcare providers have the best representation possible. I […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Maria Quero, Personal Support Worker

My name is Maria Quero and I have been working as a Personal Support Worker for about 6 years in Roseburg Oregon. It is an honor to be nominated for a position of assistant director of the board of directors of region 3. It will be an amazing personal opportunity to grow as an active […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Jessica DuPuis, Meadow Park

I think this would be a great opportunity to learn and become more active in my Union.

Candidate for Assistant Director: Bernardo Tuma, Department of Education

Vice President SEIU 503 Sub-Local 581, representing state employees at Oregon Department of Education, union steward, membership since February 2016. Active participation in GC workgroups for Economical Justice, and Equity and Inclusion. Previous collaboration with Tacoma Fire Union IAFF Local 31, and Tacoma Carpenters Union Local 470. This pandemic has made it clear that our […]

Candidate for Director: Erin Selvey, City of Springfield

I have been honored to serve you and our union as the Region 2 Director on the SEIU 503 Board of Directors for the past two years. A great deal of important work has come out of the current Board, including a 5-year Strategic Plan, a new Portland Headquarters, and several disaster relief funds that […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Michelle Dawson, Avamere

My name is Michelle Dawson and I am a candidate for Assistant Director for Region 2. I have been a Union Steward for 3 years at my worksite, at Avamere Eugene Rehab. As an indigenous woman, I have worked incredibly hard to change my circumstances and take my power back. As Assistant Director for Region […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Kathleen Lamar, Department of Justice

Current Activity: Assistant Director, Region 1; President, Justice Sub-Local 137; Chief Steward; Steward; 2 Labor Management Committees; NEO presentations; Bargaining Delegate; General Council Delegate; CAPE contributor Prior activities: Board Assistant Director 2004-2006; Board Director 2014-2018, Women’s Council, LERC ULEAD Graduate In the last two years, I have seen some amazing changes at SEIU that positively […]

Candidate for Director: Jan Montes, Homecare

I’m Jan Montes, a HomecareWorker for my mother living with Alzheimer’s. I raised 6 sons on a shoestring. I understand the plight of poverty in America with and without a union. When I found out that not only could I care for my mother and be paid (after five years of not being paid) and […]

Candidate for Asssistant Director: Felipa Rojas de Torres, Avalon Nursing Homes

Hi, more than anything I have a big heart for all my fellow workers like me wanting better lives for our families and our selves. I being serving my co-workers as a stwart for the last 4 years, which being a great opportunity to grow up us a person and allowing me to learn more […]

Candidate for Director: Jo Hickerson, Eastern Oregon University

I was elected to the assistant director’s seat of Higher Education in 2018 and in 2019 I assumed the director’s seat when it was vacated. I have represented the values of higher education and our specific needs for the last two years. In addition to being a director I am the president and a steward […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Joy Vegar, Personal Support Worker

My name is Joy Vegar. I’m running for Assistant Director for Region 3. I’ve been a member of SEIU 503 for 18 years now. I’ve served on the Homecare Council and CAPE. I’m a past Co Chair of the Civil and Human Rights Committee. I’m a Homecare steward. I serve on the Women’s Council. SEIU […]

Candidate for Director: Helen Moore, Eastern Oregon University

As an employee of Eastern Oregon University, I have been an active member of OPEU/SEIU 503 for 40 years. I have participated in, and helped organize numerous actions, which have helped my fellow members gain and retain many of the benefits we enjoy today. During the past 2 years I’ve served as the Region 5 […]

The Senate's latest COVID-19 recovery package values corporations over workers

After waiting months for the Senate to vote on the HEROES Act or introduce new COVID-19 recovery legislation, Senate Republicans just unveiled the HEALS Act, which is wholly inadequate and has no new aid for state and local governments. Without increased funding for the state, Oregon’s budget will be in a crisis point. That will […]

Your union delegates gather (virtually) for the 2020 General Council!

Every two years, hundreds of elected leaders in our union gather for General Council, our Union’s “legislative body.” At General Council, the delegates you elect in union elections will debate and vote on resolutions that chart our course for the next two years. Usually, we gather together at a convention center and spend a long […]

Letter of Agreement COVID-19 Pandemic and Alternatives to Layoffs

Letter of Agreement COVID-19 Pandemic and Alternatives to Layoffs   This Agreement is entered into between the SEIU Local 503, OPEU, hereinafter the Union, and Eastern Oregon University (EOU), Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT), Oregon State University (OSU), Portland State University (PSU), Southern Oregon University (SOU), University of Oregon (UO), and Western Oregon University (WOU), […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Tammy Tate-Houdroge, Personal Support Worker

Hello my name is Tammy Tate Houdroge. This is an extraordinary moment in our counties history. All at once, we are grappling with a public health crisis that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, an economic shock that has forced us to adapt on the fly, and social upheaval that has challenged all of […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Cristina Aviles, Personal Support Worker

My name is Cristina Aviles and I am running for Assistant Director in Region 7. I have been a Personal Support Worker (PSW) for 6 years. My job is to provide care for adults experiencing mental, intellectual or developmental disabilities in their homes and support integrating them in their communities to live enriched, fulfilling lives […]

Candidate for Director: Adam Korst, City of Beaverton

I’m proud to be seeking my second term as the local government director for SEIU 503, and am excited for the opportunity to ask for your vote. Over the past handful of years, I have served as a bargaining delegate, chief steward, council delegate, vice president, and now president of my sub-local in the City […]

Candidate for Director: Johnny Earl, University of Oregon

Over the last two years being on the Board has been interesting, inspiring and empowering. Region 2 has a variety of members from state-funded jobs. We all come from different walks of life, different cultures and are at different Social-economic levels. There are several things we have in common: hard work, fair pay, and the […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Colleen Martin-Low, Southern Oregon University

I am an accountant II at Southern Oregon University. I am a 23 year SEIU 503 member, serving as VP and most recently, bargaining delegate of my local. I am seeking the position of Assistant Director OUS. I hope to use my experience as a worker to help our union remain strong and continue to […]

In 5 Months Since First Covid Case, SEIU Members Have Pulled Together

The Oregon Health Authority announced our state’s first presumptive case of COVID-19 on February 28th, five months ago today. Life has not been the same since. Key Points SEIU members bargained more than 40 letters of agreement with employers, covering everything from paid time off to telework to required notice of COVID exposure. We launched […]

Candidate for Director: Rose Barnes, Department of Human Services

My name is Rose Barnes, Tillamook Family Coach, I recently was appointed Chair/President of the District 1 sub-local. In previous roles I have been a Union Steward, Vice-Chair, Lead, Assistant Manager and Manager. I bring a wealth of knowledge on both the Union and management sides, enabling me to collaborate with management as well as […]

DHS Local 203 Interim Election Candidate Statements

Candidate for Vice Chair: Evan Berss I’m running for Vicechair in 203 so that I can help create a sense of unity through change and dialogue within our Sublocal and throughout SEIU. I have spearheaded the formation of various Steward Meetings, was vice-chair of 218 Sublocal briefly, and take part on numerous Labor Management Committees, […]

Candidate for Director: Sarah Ray, Adult Foster Homes

Sarah Ray never shied away from a challenge. She leaped at the opportunity to open her own business at the age of twenty-one. This was not an impulse; this was her drive. Sarah combined her drive with public service and created Sarah’s Foster Care, Inc. She dedicated her career and life advocating for individuals experiencing […]

Candidate for Director: Alisha Goodwin, Department of Justice

For 2 years I have served on the SEIU 503 board as the Specials Coalition Assistant Director. My goal during the past two years has been to be present, to learn, and to lend a voice which represents workers. I am ready to take the next step by representing the Specials Coalition as the Director. […]

Candidate for Statewide VP - PS: Andrea Kennedy-Smith, Department of Human Services

It has been my privilege and honor to have served as your first Asian-American Vice President. I am requesting your trust and confidence, once again, in voting for me this year. I hope I continue to have the opportunity to listen, respond, learn and lead. I’m committed to making a positive impact and further empowering […]

Benefits Update: Healthcare, Retirement and SEIU Member Advantages: July 23, 2020

Healthcare  Open enrollment for healthcare plans is in October. Open enrollment is when you can change your healthcare plan or sign up for new benefits. This year, open enrollment is optional due to the pandemic, however we strongly encourage you to mark your calendar and make time to review your plans. Many SEIU 503 members […]

Statement on Federal Police in Portland

‘Wall of moms’ at Portland protest formed to protect demonstrators https://t.co/YijlVAvvjP pic.twitter.com/CP8gfmkDxU — Jeffrey Levin (@jilevin) July 20, 2020   SEIU 503, Oregon’s public services and care provider union, released the following statement on federal police in Portland:  There is a long history in this country of using police and private security forces to suppress […]

Stronger Together, a Podcast from SEIU 503: The Steward Episode!

On the latest episode of Stronger Together, a Podcast from SEIU Local 503, we talk all things stewarding! We start by talking with Micki Varney, our local’s Chief Steward who will discuss the details for stewarding in our public sector shops. Then we speak with our staff attorney Jared Franz about arbitration and how to […]

SEIU 503 Code of Conduct

There is a prohibition against harassment and other exclusionary behavior. This includes, but is not limited to: Violent threats or language directed against another person Discriminatory jokes and language Ableist jokes and language Sexually explicit or violent behavior and language Offensive comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, mental illness, neurotype, […]

Here's What's Happening With our Public Workplaces

Right now we are fighting to protect public employee jobs and maintain our state services against a difficult budget shortfall. That is why it is crucial for our coworkers to be united and let Oregonians know how important public employees are to our state’s safety and recovery. It looks like your membership is not up […]

Biden Announces "Caregiving Economy" Plan

Biden’s Economic Relief and Recovery Plan Puts America’s Families First with Expansion and Resourcing of Essential Caregiving Workforce they Rely on   America’s caregivers are an essential part of our family infrastructure allowing us to do our jobs while ensuring that our loved ones – children, parents, and family members with disabilities – are cared […]

Chúng Ta Là 503

72.000 người. 700 nhà lãnh đạo được bầu. Tất cả chúng ta cùng nhau phấn đấu để có mức lương và phúc lợi tốt hơn, có tiếng nói trong công việc và phát triển Công Đoàn của mình. SEIU 503 là một Công Đoàn dân chủ dưới sự điều hành của các thành viên. Trong […]

Somos 503

72,000 personas. 700 líderes elegidos. Todos trabajamos juntos por mejores salarios y beneficios, por ser escuchados en el trabajo y para que nuestra unión crezca. SEIU 503 es una unión democrática, dirigida por sus miembros. En el 2020, elegiremos más de 700 líderes para una variedad de cargos, como la Junta Directiva, funcionarios de Sublocal y funcionarios estatales. […]

Наше имя — 503

72 000 человек. 700 избранных лидеров. Общий труд ради лучших зарплат и льгот, право голоса на работе и расширения нашего профсоюза. SEIU 503 — это демократический профсоюз, управляемый членами. В 2020 году мы изберем более 700 лидеров на различные должности, такие как Совет директоров, должностные лица в Sub Local и в рамках штата. Люди, которые займут […]

我们是 503

拥有 7.2 万名成员。700 名选举产生的领导人。所有人共同努力，争取更高的薪酬和福利，在工作中发声，帮助我们工会不断发展壮大。 SEIU 503 是一个由成员管理的民主工会。2020 年，我们将选举 700 多名领导者担任各种各样的职务，包括董事会、地方子分会官员和全州官员。身处这些职位的人员将在未来两年完成各项工会工作，带领我们交涉更有利的合同、维护工人利益以及不断发展壮大。 竞选和参加工会选举是您帮助工会发展的最佳方式。您的想法对我们而言很重要。请表达您的想法。 点击此处查看董事会地理区域的地图。   2020 年地方子分会选举信息 地方子分会是 SEIU 503 在全州各地的子机构，是代表具体谈判部门的小型组织。其中包括家庭护理工作者地方子分会、高等教育行业地方子分会、非营利组织地方子分会、众多州级和地方级政府地方子分会及其他。 点击此处查看地方子分会选举结果。这些结果将根据选举时间线依次发布。 其他资源 了解如何竞选。点击此处下载指南。 了解竞选规则。下载竞选活动规则常见问题解答。 或者，查看关于现任领导的信息。

General Council 2020

General Council delegates set us on a bold new path to strengthen representation, grow our union, and meet the challenges that will define our lives for years to come. Click here to see the resolutions passed by the 2020 General Council.    Keynote Speaker: Rocio Sáenz, SEIU International Executive Vice President Rocio Sáenz was […]

Steward Profile: Michelle Jones, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

“One of the things about being a steward is you get away from catch phrases and cliches and get into the specifics for the agency of what we have won,” says Michelle Jones, a union steward who has been with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). In a short period of time, Jones […]

Higher Education workers, universities call for unemployment reform

Earlier this week, SEIU 503 joined the leaders of Oregon’s 7 public universities to send a letter to Oregon Governor Kate Brown calling for unemployment insurance protections for higher education workers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter asks the Governor to work with the Employment Department to extend unemployment insurance eligibility and […]

July 2020 Homecare Dignity Newsletter

Dignity Newsletter July 2020

JULY 2020 SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION LOCAL 503 Homecare Workers Get A Raise, But The State Stalls On Promised Retirement Plan In 2019 Homecare workers won a landmark retirement plan in our last contract. The state will not meet its obligation to implement the plan on time, but our Union made sure workers will still […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Carolynn Kohout, Homecare

Qualifications: 1- Homecare Council member for 10 years; 2- active on the Bargaining Team 2009-2011, 2013-2015, and 2018-2020; 3- 2014 to COVID organized one meeting a month in five communities in Washington County for Homecare and Personal Support Workers; and 4- Women’s Council four years. Additionally: 1- A CAPE member for 12 years, interviewing candidates […]

Corporate front group spreads misinformation on Movement for Black Lives

SEIU 503 members have recently been contacted by the Freedom Foundation (Opt Out Today) with misleading messages about our union’s position on racial justice and police. We appreciate you taking the time to research these issues. Instead of taking the statements of an anti-union group at face value, you can see the real story here. […]

Don't leave money on the table. Make sure you're taking full advantage of PTO benefits. 

Don’t leave money on the table. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of PTO benefits.  We’ve put together this overview of PTO benefits, including two new COVID-19 programs, to help you understand what’s available and how to request it. 1. Regular PTO Benefits Regular PTO benefits are available if you worked 80 or more hours in […]

Online Orientation Now Available For New Care Providers

Back in May, Carewell SEIU 503 Training launched Online Orientation to assist new homecare and personal support workers to complete their required orientation from home while social distancing measures are in place. In the months of May and June, the Carewell Training team has trained 716 workers, and 426 workers have completed the training so […]

Higher Ed Gets a Raise and Extended Telework Options

The last few months have been a whirlwind as Covid-19 has changed the lives of most Oregonians. As we continue to adjust to the ways COVID has impacted our lives On July 1st a 2.1% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) went into effect, and you will see that raise on your next paycheck. We negotiated […]

State Employees Get a New Step and Extended Telework Options

The last few months have been a whirlwind as Covid-19 has changed the lives of most Oregonians. Together, our union has fought to make sure that our members are protected as they continue to provide essential services during this crisis, and we’ll continue to do so until this pandemic is over. Even during all this […]

Candidate for Director: Ron Strle, Prestige Hood River

I have been working for Prestige Hood River Care Center for 4 ½ years as a CNA. I am union Stewart, member of Nursing Home Council, a trustee for the Long-Term care Workforce Trust and a barging team member. I consider myself a team player, quick learner and detail-oriented person. I feel that If given […]

SEIU endorses Joe Biden for President

After a thorough, member-driven process, SEIU today endorsed Joe Biden for President in 2020. Today’s endorsement is the result of a process that centered on SEIU’s Unions For All Agenda and SEIU 2020 portal to compile information on candidates for President. SEIU also hosted a Unions For All Summit last October for candidates seeking our […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Cristal DeJarnac, Homecare

Hi, my name is Cristal DeJarnac, I’ve been a HomeCare Worker in Central Oregon for my best-friend for 5 years now, in the past I have also taken care of my mom, my mother-in-law, and my late husband. I‘ve seen the need for people to be able to continue living in their own homes with […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Austin Folnagy, Employment

I am running to represent you, the members, as Assistant Director . I am running in order to provide our members with a leader committed to the members and their empowerment. I believe we are a member driven union, and as a Bargaining delegate at central table, we won a lot for our members. But […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Susan Kay Mundell, PERS

I have had the honor of being the Specials Coalition Director for the past 4 years. I have come to love the good work that SEIU’s board accomplishes for our members. The Board approved Hardship Fund has been a great help to our members during the wildfires from 2019 and the 2020 Pandemic. This type […]

Candidate for Assistant Director: Martha Heather, Eastern Oregon University

I am nominating myself for assistant director for the eastern region to take a step into helping to serve our union at the state level. I have worked at EOU in a classified position since 2012 and have been a steward at our institution for the last two years. My goal in this position is […]

Candidate for Statewide Treasurer: Elisa Cervantes, Dept of Human Services

1. I have been an active member for 11 years, I have been a part of the Statewide, I have also prepared the budget for the sub local. For ten years. 2. I have always been a fighter for justice and equity, I have been engaged in unions since high school. 3. Im seeking this […]

Candidate for Statewide VP - PS: Ibrahim Coulibaly, Bureau Of Labor and Industries

My name is Ibrahim Coulibaly and I am asking for your vote for SEIU 503 Vice Presidency (Public Sector). I became a member of SEIU in 2015, as Oregon State Hospital staff in Junction City. Shortly after we opened, my coworkers and I had to face one of the most challenging times in our careers; […]

Homecare workers get a raise; but state stalls on promised retirement plan

Key Points:  Homecare workers won a landmark retirement plan in our last contract. The state will not meet its obligation to implement the plan on time, but our Union made sure workers will still get the money they’re owed in the form of a raise. The retirement plan is expected to come online later this […]

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Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Tentative Agreement at Baker County

After reaching out to many of you, our bargaining team made the decision to proposing to limit the scope of negotiations for this year’s contract. Given the the current crisis and the state of the economy we believe this decision to be in all of our best interests. Last week we reached an agreement with […]

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

AFH Letters of Agreement

Letters of Agreement are like short-term contracts that cover specific issues. During COVID-19, for example, our Union signed many letter of agreement addressing issues specific to the pandemic, such as expanded paid time off or rules about how PPE would be distributed. Below is a list of letters of agreement impacting the nursgin home contract. […]

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Local Government Letters of Agreement

Letters of Agreement are like short-term contracts that cover specific issues. During COVID-19, for example, our Union signed many letter of agreement addressing issues specific to the pandemic, such as expanded paid time off or rules about how PPE would be distributed. Below is a list of letters of agreement impacting the nursgin home contract. […]

Child Care Letters of Agreement

Letters of Agreement are like short-term contracts that cover specific issues. During COVID-19, for example, our Union signed many letter of agreement addressing issues specific to the pandemic, such as expanded paid time off or rules about how PPE would be distributed. Below is a list of letters of agreement impacting the nursgin home contract. […]

Higher Ed Letters of Agreement

March, 20, 2020 Our Union has signed a Letter of Agreement (LOA) with Oregon’s seven public universities detailing their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agreement covers expanded emergency sick leave, telework, access to trial service leave, notification of exposure to COVID-19, and more. Click here to read the full Letter of Agreement.

State Letter of Agreement

Letters of Agreement are like short-term contracts that cover specific issues. During COVID-19, for example, our Union signed many letter of agreement addressing issues specific to the pandemic, such as expanded paid time off or rules about how PPE would be distributed. Below is a list of letters of agreement impacting the statewide DAS contract. […]

Homecare Letters of Agreement

Letters of Agreement are like short-term contracts that cover specific issues. During COVID-19, for example, our Union signed many letter of agreement addressing issues specific to the pandemic, such as expanded paid time off or rules about how PPE would be distributed. Below is a list of letters of agreement impacting the homecare and personal […]

2020 Special Legislative Sessions Preview

The Oregon Legislature is convening for a special session today to address police accountability and COVID-19 response. It’s important to know that budget adjustments related to the pandemic will not be considered during this special session. State leaders are waiting to see what the next federal recovery package contains to avoid making unnecessary cuts to […]

Resources for Board and Statewide Officer Candidates

Election FAQ 2020 Final Letter to Candidates 2020 Election Guidelines 2020 Candidate Mail and Email Messaging Procedure 2020 (1) 2020 SWO Election C & E Report Form Given that General Council will beheld virtually this year, campaigning at GC will be prohibited as it will be impossible to accommodate on the virtual platform in a manner that complies with the Union’s Bylaws and Federal law. […]

Dignity Newsletter June 2020

–SEIU is committed to creating a just society for all people. We recognize that not every member of our union can move through our communities without fearing for their lives. Last week our Union’s member-elected Board of Directors voted to endorse an anti-racist policy platform, developed by Black leaders in response to the needs of their […]

Homecare, PSWs Win New Agreement: Up To 80 hours Expanded COVID PTO! 

Great news! Our Union just signed a new LOA with the State securing more paid time-off if you missed work hours due to COVID-19. Click here to view the full Letter Of Agreement (LOA). Carewell SEIU 503 Benefits is offering a temporary expanded paid leave benefit, Carewell SEIU 503 CARES PTO, to homecare and personal […]

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Letters of Agreement

Short-term agreements covering specific topics.

Wednesday Action Confirmation

Thank you for signing up for our our Wednesday Action emails. Most Wednesdays you will receive an email with a call to action to support SEIU members in bargaining, through political engagement or by supporting our community allies. We also periodically send other updates to this list when there are critically important events, such as […]

SEIU 503 Resolves to Support the Black Lives Movement

SEIU is committed to creating a just society for all people. We recognize that not every member of our union can move through our communities without fearing for their lives. The senseless killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd do not reflect who we want to be as a country. In order to […]

June Leadership Call

Our Union is only as strong as its leaders. That’s why I hope you can join me and other officers, stewards and leaders for a monthly call. SEIU 503 Monthly Leadership Call June 25 2:30 – 3:30 PM Register here In these monthly calls, you will get updates on the latest news and events, as […]

June Benefits Update: PERS lawsuit and COVID resources

Every quarter we send out an update on PERS, PEBB, and SEIU 503 Member Advantages because we know our benefits are a top concern for SEIU members. Before we jump in, a quick reminder that SeiuStateBenefits.com is the best place to find information about all your benefits in one place – you can even use our calculator to learn […]

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2020 Statewide Officer Elections - Spanish

Any SEIU 503 active or semi-active member in good standing may run for Statewide Office, Director or Assistant Director and any SEIU 503 active, semi-active, or staff member in good standing may run for Executive Director. Notice of the 2020 statewide officer election The official notice of the 2020 statewide officer election was mailed to […]

Upcoming events

Homecare Leadership

Homecare Council First Last Position Email City Homecare General Council Delegates First Last Position Email City

State Workers Reach New, Extended Agreement With Agencies

New agreement extends COVID-19 protections, adds new leave options and more.    This week, employees at state agencies represented by SEIU 503 reached a new “letter of agreement” with the State. The agreement – which is like a short term contract – is meant to clarify agency responses to COVID-19 and ensure that the critically […]

2020 Statewide Officer Positions & Directors

Directors and Assistant Directors are elected in the following numbers. One member employed by OUS; One member employed by an agency in the Human Services Coalition of DAS; One member employed by an agency in the ODOT Coalition of DAS; One member employed by an agency in the Specials Coalition of DAS; One member employed […]

SEIU 503 Members Reflect on Asian American Pacific Heritage Month 2020

This year’s observance of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month was unusual, to say the least. Public health measures to defeat COVID-19 kept us from gathering together to celebrate the importance and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Racism and xenophobia related to the pandemic also contributed to spikes in hate crimes against people […]

Statement on Justice For George Floyd and Nationwide Protests 

Our community cannot begin to address the pain and harm caused by the senseless killing of George Floyd until the four officers responsible are brought to justice. Our Union demands justice for George Floyd.  SEIU 503 remains committed to systematic change to address anti-Black racism. Racial discrimination inherent in all levels of our criminal justice […]

Nursing Home Letters of Agreement

Proposed Work Share LOA for University of Oregon

Proposed Letter of Agreement UO Voluntary Work Share Program This agreement is between the University of Oregon (University) and the SEIU Local 503, OPEU (Union). Due to the budget impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and in order to avoid layoffs, the parties agree to jointly allow for individual classified employees to voluntarily reduce their […]

DHS Sub-local 208 Special Election Candidate Statements

During the recent union elections, the members elected for sublocal 208 Vice Chair and 208 Secretary both accepted officer positions with our statewide 200 board which triggered a special election for these two positions. Please vote for one candidate for sublocal Vice Chair and One Candidate for sublocal Secretary. Voting will be open between Monday […]

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Work Share and Unemployment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Work Share and Unemployment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Higher Education Edition Q. How do I contact the Oregon Employment Department with specific questions not answerable by this FAQ? You should contact the Work Share division of the Oregon Employment Department. Email: OED_WorkShare@oregon.gov​ Phone: (503)-947-1800 Toll Free: (800)-436-6191 Q. What if I do not qualify for […]

The Revenue Forecast Is A Call To Action

The impact of COVID-19 on the state budget means Governor Brown and state legislators will have to make hard choices. They should choose to prioritize working families and the people hit hardest by the recession. By Melissa Unger, Executive Director of SEIU 503 State economists released their may revenue forecast on Wednesday, confirming what we […]

SEIU 503 endorsed candidates rack up wins in 2020 Oregon Primary

Of the 32 candidates our member-led process chose to endorse, 25 won outright, 4 advanced to a runoff in November, and 3 came up short. Shemia Fagan, our choice for Secretary of State, had a historic come from behind victory due to late voters breaking heavily for Fagan after the state’s largest newspaper called the […]

Dignity Newsletter May 2020

Exploring Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Food Security in Oregon Take this Western Oregon University nutrition survey for a chance to win $200 Western Oregon University would like to invite you to take part in a survey to help better understand how COVID-19 has impacted health in Oregon, particularly how it has affected food insecurity. They […]

25 Years Ago SEIU 503 Went on Strike; Today We Face A New Threat

“Union brothers and sisters stand united, our fight is not over. It has just begun, and we will prevail,” said SEIU Local 503, OPEU President Karla Marks to a roaring crowd of thousands in front of the state capitol building in 1995. More than 15,000 public employee members of our union had decided to walk […]

Nursing Home Letters of Agreement

2.5% Incentive for PTO and Hazard Pay The Oregon Legislature approved a program to support nursing facilities in adopting employment policies that protect employees during the COVID-19 crisis. The Department of Human Services will provide an incentive payment equal to 2.5% of Medicaid revenue for the months of May-July 2020 but employers must provide PTO, […]

DHS Sub-Local 204 Interim Election

Following the recent union elections, the winner of the Vice Chair position declined that role in order to accept another within the labor management committee / sublocal executive team. This has led to a vacancy for Vice Chair and triggered an interim election within the district. Please vote for one candidate for sublocal Vice Chair. […]

Cuts to critical state programs would harm hundreds of thousands of Oregonians

Congress is considering another COVID-19 relief package, which includes almost $1 Trillion for state and local governments. Passing this package is critically important. We know that cuts in the public sector made the last recession worse, and the consequences of inaction today are significant. Public services are vitally important to communities across Oregon, particularly for […]