SEIU leaders rally San Francisco supervisors to support May Day resolutions

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors meeting on April 16, 2025, was dominated by discussions surrounding the upcoming May Day actions, with multiple speakers urging the board to support a resolution introduced by Supervisor Hillary Ronan. The resolution aims to affirm the city’s commitment to workers' rights and immigrant support during a time of heightened political tension.

Vice President of SEIU 10 to 1, Ronan, emphasized the importance of May Day as a day of resistance, linking it to the historical fight for the eight-hour workday and the ongoing struggles faced by immigrants under the current administration. He called for not just a resolution but also a show of solidarity from the Board of Supervisors, stating, “We are asking for your support... in spirit.”

David Kanham, the San Francisco Director for SEIU 10 to 1, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the resolution would reassure union members participating in May Day actions that they would not face retaliation from the city. He urged the board to stand with workers during this critical time.

Peter Masiak, the Strategic Campaigns Coordinator for SEIU, provided historical context, noting that May Day is celebrated globally to honor the martyrs of the Haymarket Massacre, a pivotal event in labor history. He stressed the need for San Francisco to be a beacon of support against the current administration's policies, stating, “It is imperative that this body supports this resolution.”

Other speakers, including labor leaders and community members, reinforced the call for the board's support, framing May Day as a collective fight for all marginalized groups, not just immigrants. Olga Miranda, president of SEIU Local 87, passionately urged the board to join the march, emphasizing that May Day represents the struggles of working families.

The meeting also touched on broader issues, including the ongoing challenges faced by the African American community in San Francisco, as highlighted by speaker Ace Warshington, who called for recognition of the state of emergency affecting Black residents.

As the meeting concluded, the overwhelming sentiment was clear: the Board of Supervisors is being urged to take a stand in solidarity with workers and immigrants on May Day, reinforcing San Francisco's identity as a sanctuary city committed to social justice. The anticipated outcome of the resolution could significantly impact community morale and participation in the upcoming May Day events.