Matt LaFever
May 8, 2024
Members of SEIU 1021 rally outside the Mendocino County Courthouse [Picture provided by Ian King]
Union workers at Mendocino Lake Community College will rally on Wednesday, May 8, demanding increased support for the local community from the college’s Board of Trustees.
Custodians, admissions staff, financial aid workers, and maintenance technicians will gather at 4 p.m. at 1000 Hensley Creek Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482, to address the challenges faced by Mendocino County residents.
Recent surveys show that 22% of workers have experienced homelessness, with 3% currently homeless despite being employed. Additionally, 18% have sought government help to cover housing costs.
Beronica Leon, SEIU 1021 Chapter President and a college admission technician, stressed the importance of education in strengthening the community. “Living in Mendocino County is getting harder,” said Leon. “We want to educate local youth right here in their own community.”
Union members will demand fair negotiations with the college administration to tackle these issues. Visuals will include union members in purple shirts with picket signs, chanting and giving speeches.