Over two powerful days, SEIU Local 1021 members across Solano County stood shoulder to shoulder in a unified strike demanding what every community deserves: fully funded public services and a fair, equitable contract for the workers who provide them.

The two-day strike brought together county workers from multiple departments—including health and human services, public works, libraries, and other essential services—alongside labor siblings from IFPTE Local 21, IUOE Local 39, and UAPD. Together, they sent a clear and collective message: Solano County cannot continue to underfund public services at the expense of workers and the people they serve.

SEIU 1021 President Theresa Rutherford joined workers on the picket line both days, reinforcing the union’s commitment to standing with members when public services are under threat.

“During the last two days, I’ve been on the strike line — arm in arm — with Solano County workers who are fighting for a fair contract,” said Rutherford. “If employers choose to cut public services and withhold funding, we will fight back. We will fight to protect services, our families, and the people we serve. Our power is in our unity — with our labor siblings and with our community.”

Workers described unsafe staffing levels, growing burnout, and persistent vacancies that have made it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of Solano County residents. The strike followed months of stalled negotiations and unfair labor practices that left workers with no choice but to escalate.

Throughout the two days, the strike line became a visible expression of solidarity and care. Members rallied together, shared meals, danced, supported one another, and uplifted the shared belief that public services work best when the workers who provide them are respected, retained, and fairly compensated.

“This strike was about more than a contract — it was about protecting the public services our communities rely on every day. When county workers are stretched thin and positions go unfilled, residents feel the impact first. What we saw over these two days was workers standing together, across unions and job classifications, to say clearly and collectively: Solano County deserves fully staffed services, and workers deserve a contract that reflects the value of the work we do,” said Elizabeth Harrison, SEIU 1021’s Regional VP who works in Solano County’s Older and Disabled Adult Services.

For SEIU 1021’s 60,000 members across Northern California, the Solano County strike stands as a reminder of what collective action can achieve—and what is possible when workers refuse to be divided.

The Solano for All coalition is continuing to stay committed to bargaining a contract that strengthens public services, stabilizes the workforce, and ensures that Solano County is a place where workers and residents alike can thrive.