SEIU Statement on Justice Breyer’s Retirement

Mary Kay Henry, president of the Services Employees International Union, issued the following statement upon the news of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s retirement:

“With Justice Breyer retiring, President Biden has an opportunity to nominate to our nation’s highest court a Black woman who has experience representing working people and our communities. Americans deserve a Supreme Court that upholds and advances racial and economic justice and shields workers from the predatory special interests and corporations who continue to treat them as disposable. Justice Breyer shares these values and for the past 28 years has consistently ruled in support of workers’ right to come together in a union, the right to vote, free speech, women's reproductive freedom, affirmative action to challenge systemic racism, and affordable healthcare for working families. We are deeply grateful for his service and steadfast support.

In swiftly confirming the next Supreme Court justice, the Senate can deliver on the President’s commitment to increasing both racial and professional diversity on the bench. There is no room on the Court for more prosecutors or lawyers who spent most of their careers representing corporate interests. We are eager to support a pro-worker Black woman nominee who has demonstrated across her legal career that she understands the concerns of working people and has stood up for those most in need of protection. Amid blatant attempts by states to disenfranchise Black voters, it is imperative that the Black, brown, API and immigrant communities and the essential workers who drive our economy have a voice on our nation’s highest court.

The 2 million service and care workers of SEIU know how much is at stake in our society and with our court. It’s time for the President and Congress to meet this moment with bold, swift action.”