In a powerful move to protect and amplify the voices of working Oregonians, SEIU 503, Oregon’s largest labor Union, will re-affiliate with the Oregon AFL-CIO, the statewide federation of labor Unions. This partnership comes at a critical time when 80% of SEIU 503’s members are preparing to bargain new contracts for 2025 and will fortify the strength of the state’s labor movement against an incoming anti-worker presidential administration that prioritizes profits over people.
This strategic partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing the rights, protections, and power of Oregon’s working families. At a time when Unions are enjoying immense popularity and winning historic and life-changing contracts, this re-affiliation will empower the labor movement to take greater steps to lift up working Oregonians across industries statewide – giving many workers their first access to a Union.
“This is a bold effort toward building a stronger labor movement” said Johnny Earl, president of SEIU 503. “Together, we’re standing up for a future where all working people in Oregon are respected, protected, and paid.”
SEIU 503 is the state’s largest labor union, with 70,000 workers from the public, private, non-profit and caregiver sectors and rejoining the Oregon AFL-CIO deepens the collective strength of the state’s labor movement. As Oregon’s statewide labor federation, the Oregon AFL-CIO brings together workers from every corner of the state’s diverse economy, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, education, public services, and more, uniting voices to take on anti-worker proposals that aim to chip away or decimate workers’ rights.
“Partnering with the state’s largest labor Union means we can amplify our voices even more and serve as a strong advocate for Oregon workers more effectively,” said Graham Trainor, president of the Oregon AFL-CIO. “This will enable us to continue building worker power into the next decade and beyond. When Oregon’s workers stand together across sectors, we build greater power and will be positioned to ensure Oregon remains a union strong state. SEIU 503’s reaffiliation is a strong step toward our vision of creating a fair and just economy for all working people and we look forward to working with their members and leaders to empower workers in every community in our state. ”
“SEIU 503’s decision to rejoin the Oregon AFL-CIO comes as a response to the growing strength and determination of workers throughout our state,” said Mike Powers, immediate past president of SEIU 503. “By standing together with members from other Unions, we’re ensuring that Oregon’s working families have a united voice that will be heard even louder at the state legislature and among policymakers.”
With SEIU 503’s re-affiliation, the Oregon AFL-CIO’s united front will respond proactively to any federal attacks on workers’ rights and protections, while continuing to advocate for policies and contracts that lift up working families. This partnership sends a clear message: Oregon’s labor movement will remain a powerful force for dignity, security, and opportunity for all working people across the state.
“This is a testament to our shared values and commitment to building a future where Oregon’s working families can thrive,” said Sarina Roher, secretary-treasurer of the Oregon AFL-CIO. “Together, we will advance worker protections, social justice, and economic equity.”
“Our partnership with the Oregon AFL-CIO couldn’t come at a better time,” said Melissa Unger, executive director of SEIU 503. “Oregon workers will have even more power to stand strong, protect our rights and communities, and fight back against anti-worker policies, especially as we usher in a new and anti-labor presidential administration and Congress.”
The re-affiliation was approved by hundreds of SEIU 503’s members elected to the Union’s General Council, at its biannual gathering in August 2024 after the board of the Oregon AFL-CIO and SEIU 503 engaged in a process over nearly a year.
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