Somerville City Council took a strong stance in support of labor rights during its meeting on July 10, 2025, addressing significant issues surrounding union representation and workers' rights. The council unanimously approved a resolution backing the Harvard Graduate Students Union (HGSU) in its fight against Harvard University's attempt to remove 973 workers from its union. This move, described as an existential threat to labor rights, has raised concerns about the broader implications for workers across various sectors.

Councillor Burnley, who sponsored the resolution, emphasized the dangers of redefining who qualifies as a worker, arguing that such actions undermine the dignity of all workers. He highlighted the historical context of labor struggles, asserting that the fight for recognition and rights is ongoing and critical for the future of labor movements.

Dorothy Manovich, a member of the HGSU and a Somerville resident, spoke passionately about the protections and benefits that union membership provides, including healthcare and protections against harassment. She warned that if Harvard succeeds in its efforts, many workers would lose essential rights and benefits, further exacerbating the challenges they face in an already difficult economic climate.

The councilors expressed solidarity with the HGSU, with several members sharing personal experiences and advocating for the rights of public sector workers to strike. They underscored the importance of collective bargaining and the need for legislative support to ensure that public workers have the same rights as their private sector counterparts.

In addition to supporting the HGSU, the council also discussed a resolution advocating for public workers' right to strike, which would address the current legal limitations faced by public sector employees in Massachusetts. Councillor Burnley called for co-sponsorship of this legislation, emphasizing that the ability to withhold labor is a fundamental right that should be protected.

The discussions highlighted a growing recognition of the need for stronger labor protections and the importance of community support in these efforts. As the council moves forward, the implications of these resolutions could resonate beyond Somerville, potentially influencing labor rights discussions at the state level and beyond.