Harvard University Workers Demand Fair Salaries and Benefits in Cambridge Protest

By Karen Gutiérrez, Univision
Cambridge, Massachusetts – November 7, 2025

Call for Fair Wages at Harvard University

More than 1,100 custodians and security officers from Harvard University gathered on Thursday at Cambridge Commons Park to demand fair wages, improved benefits, and protections for immigrant workers. The demonstration was organized by the 32BJ SEIU, which represents maintenance and security staff at educational institutions and public buildings across the region.

The event brought together students, allied unions, and local officials, showcasing unity in front of the university administration, which has yet to present a salary proposal that addresses the union’s demands.

“They offered to freeze salaries for a year and provide a small one-time bonus. That does not cover the rising cost of living and is completely unacceptable,” criticized Kevin Brown, executive vice president of 32BJ SEIU, at the start of the rally.

Community Solidarity and Political Support

During the event, Cambridge City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler reminded attendees that while the university has the city’s support, it must also reciprocate towards its workers:

“If Harvard wants support from Cambridge residents, it must support its workers.”

Congresswoman Katherine Clark also expressed solidarity through a representative, emphasizing the importance of union unity:

“True power comes from the union of neighbors and colleagues, in the union hall and on the picket line. You deserve fair and decent wages, and we are proud to support you.”

Workers’ Core Demands

The Harvard employees presented a list of demands that includes:

• Annual salary increases above inflation.
• Protection of current health benefits.
• Improvements in retirement plans.
• Legal funds and protections for immigrant workers.

The union highlighted that the total cost of their requests “represents less than 1% of Harvard’s annual endowment earnings,” with the university’s endowment exceeding 50 billion dollars.

“All we ask for is respect. We are essential to keeping Harvard operational, and we deserve dignified working conditions,” stated Kevin Brown, concluding the protest to applause.

Stalemate in Negotiations

Negotiations between the union and the university began a month ago, but no further meetings have been scheduled before the expiration of current contracts on November 15. The union aims to pressure the institution to negotiate in good faith and recognize the value of the cleaning, security, and maintenance work performed by its employees.

“Harvard depends on us to keep the university in excellent condition. It is time to come together and remind them that they need us,” said Sammy Pérez, a custodian at Harvard Divinity School.

Wide Support from Other Unions

The protest garnered support from multiple labor and student organizations, including:

• Harvard University Faculty Association
• Harvard Graduate Student Union
• Harvard Student Labor Movement
• UNITE HERE! Local 26
• And members of 32BJ from other universities, such as MIT and Tufts.

The event marked one of the largest recent labor mobilizations on campus, with organizers warning of potential escalation of union actions if Harvard does not respond to the demands before the collective contract expiration.

A Movement Seeking Equity

The protest reflects a national trend of resurgence in the labor movement at universities and educational centers, where employees demand that the nation’s wealthiest institutions redistribute economic benefits toward their essential workers.

As negotiations continue, custodians and security officers affirm that they will maintain pressure and remain organized until a fair agreement is reached.