#United States #San Francisco #SEIU Local 1021 #IFPTE Local 21

San Francisco Workers Rally Against Service Cuts

On May 14, 2025, an urgent protest erupted at San Francisco's City Hall as city unions, including IFPTE Local 21 and SEIU Local 1021, rallied to voice their opposition against severe budget cuts and layoffs. Over 1,000 dedicated city workers congregated at the historic steps of City Hall, drawing attention to the imminent fiscal challenges presented by Mayor Daniel Lurie's upcoming budget release.

The Push for Public Service Support

Held at noon, the gathering served as a stark alert to city officials regarding the potential negative impacts of prioritizing tech corporations over essential public services. The workers' frustrations were further compounded by reports indicating that major tech companies are evading their fair share of taxes, contributing to the city's financial woes. "We need a budget that puts working people first, not giant tech corporations," stated Chung Park, a representative from the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 39.

Meanwhile, dramatic demonstrations unfolded within City Hall itself, with protesters unfurling large banners emblazoned with the slogan, "Protect Public Services. No cuts! No layoffs!" This bold display was aimed directly at the Mayor's attention, signaling the urgent demands of city workers.

Voices of Concern

Speakers at the rally included local union leaders and District Supervisors, such as Jackie Fielder and Chyanne Chen, who emphasized the essential role of city workers in maintaining San Francisco's public services. Chen assertively declared, "We will stand united against corporations like Airbnb that seek to evade their tax responsibilities."

Sarah Perez, a city employee and Vice President for IFPTE Local 21, echoed similar sentiments, warning that layoffs would undermine essential services, which could be replaced by out-of-state contractors, potentially compromising the quality of care and facility maintenance that residents rely on. "Who will provide services to San Franciscans if the Mayor lays off city workers? Greedy contractors who cut corners at the expense of our residents?" she questioned.

SEIU 1021 President, Theresa Rutherford, lamented the potential implications for the community, stating, "City workers are what make San Francisco the place we love, from clean parks to functioning transit. How can the Mayor tout our recovery then turn on the workers who helped make it happen?"

The Bigger Picture

The context of this rally lies in a looming budget deficit that is projected to reach $817.5 million. A report from the San Francisco Labor Council articulated how tax avoidance schemes by a handful of major tech firms may lead to legal disputes costing the city $415 million. Such losses represent a significant hit to essential funding for public services that the city heavily relies upon.

As the city grapples with these financial challenges, city workers continue to highlight the crucial need for fair and responsible budgeting practices that align with the interests of the workforce rather than favoring affluent corporations. The rally at City Hall marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding labor rights, public service funding, and corporate responsibility in San Francisco.

The workers left City Hall with their messages heard loud and clear, intending to keep the pressure on city leaders to prioritize public service funding over corporate interests. In light of the current climate, the future of both the city's budget and the public services it sustains remain critical concerns for all San Franciscans—an ongoing discussion in the heart of the city’s civic engagement and social justice movements.