As Congresswoman Barbara Lee campaigns for Oakland’s mayoral seat, her candidacy has sparked widespread excitement among SEIU 1021 members, particularly within the City of Oakland chapter. Known for her decades-long advocacy for social, racial, and economic justice, Lee has received an enthusiastic endorsement from SEIU 1021 as city workers prepare for critical contract negotiations amid a looming budget deficit.

Jason B. Tubbs, an SEIU 1021 COPE delegate and member of the City of Oakland’s Parks & Trees Department, captured the optimism surrounding Lee’s campaign. “As city workers heading into a contract fight while facing a structural deficit, we are proud to endorse a strong leader in Barbara Lee, who has historically aligned with our values.”

SEIU 1021’s endorsement of Barbara Lee comes at a crucial time for Oakland. With the city’s leadership recently in flux and workers facing significant challenges, the union sees Lee as the steady and experienced leader Oakland needs.

Lee’s long-standing dedication to workers’ rights and social justice, as well as her deep connection to Oakland, align closely with SEIU 1021’s mission to advocate for working families. Tubbs emphasized, “She has a long history of advocating for working people, working families, and social justice, so these are all good things that can translate over into her being a good mayor.”