Last Wednesday, May 21, SEIU members from across California united at the state capitol in Sacramento for the “IMAGINE Rally,” a powerful demonstration organized in partnership with End Child Poverty CA. The rally was a response to Governor Newsom’s proposed state budget cuts, which would slash vital public services and undermine hard-won worker protections.

Hundreds of union members, community leaders, anti-poverty advocates, and elected officials gathered to send a clear message: California’s budget must reflect the needs of all its people—not just the wealthy and well-connected. Speakers called for a fair and balanced budget that invests in the health, safety, and stability of working families across the state.

Following the rally, participants took their fight inside the capitol, meeting directly with legislators to advocate for budget solutions that prioritize equity, dignity, and the well-being of every Californian.

“I attended the rally because the matter is important to me as a social worker and a community member,” said Elizabeth Harrison, SEIU 1021 vice president of the North Central region and a social worker with Adult Protective Services in Solano County. “The budget rally was important because we need every bit of support to vote down the governor’s proposal. The rally gets us seen and heard. The lobby visits got us in the room to influence legislators to make the right decision.”

As the budget process moves forward, SEIU members remain committed to holding lawmakers accountable and ensuring that no one is left behind.