For years, Brenden Garcia, a Staff Services Coordinator at the Department of Rehabilitation in Richmond, endured constant harassment and intimidation from a manager whose favoritism and mismanagement created a toxic workplace. Like many of his coworkers, Brenden saw how fear of retaliation kept people silent, even as conditions continued to worsen.
With support from SEIU Local 1000, Brenden decided it was time to stand up. Together with his union steward, members began documenting concerns, speaking with coworkers, and raising long-standing issues through the proper channels. What started as quiet frustration grew into collective action, backed by our union and amplified by member voices.
As pressure mounted, upper management took notice. A senior manager stepped in, listened directly to employees, and quickly recognized the damage being done to the department and its staff. After months of persistence and coordinated effort, the situation reached a turning point. The manager responsible for years of harm was removed from her position, bringing immediate relief to the worksite.
This victory is a powerful reminder of what happens when workers refuse to accept mistreatment and stand together. Because of union action, the work lives of many SEIU Local 1000 members are now safer, healthier, and more respectful. When members speak up and our union has their back, bad bosses can be held accountable.