1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East has named long-time political organizer and former Boston City Council aide, Darrin Howell, as its new Political Director in Massachusetts.

In 2013, Darrin joined 1199SEIU as a political organizer working on city and statewide campaigns. Over the years, Darrin has led and contributed to several campaigns for progressive candidates and progressive issues, both locally and nationally. In 2019, Darrin was promoted to political coordinator at 1199, responsible in strengthening an ongoing activist program of hundreds of healthcare workers engaged in electoral, budgetary, and legislative advocacy.

“Throughout my life, I’ve learned about, witnessed, and experienced injustices firsthand, including the challenges facing those with a criminal record,” said Darrin Howell. “I have never shied away from speaking out against what’s wrong. But I’ve only felt powerful enough to change things as part of a movement. I look forward to bringing my lived experience and lens to this work and centering the voices of caregivers in our communities and on Beacon Hill to create a Massachusetts for all.”

Previously, Darrin worked as the constituent director for former Boston City Councilor Chuck Turner. In that role, Darrin was the first point of contact for constituents facing employment discrimination or foreclosures and worked with community leaders and neighborhood stakeholders to respond to neighborhood violence.

“Darrin is the best fit for this role to advance 1199’s core principles and values to protect good jobs and quality care in Massachusetts,” said Tim Foley, 1199SEIU executive vice president. “Healthcare and homecare workers have been on the frontlines of this pandemic, and Darrin’s leadership will be important in helping affect change that invests in our healthcare workforce and our recovery.”

Darrin is also the founder and board leader for DRIVE Boston, which hosts the largest toy drive in the city of Boston. He is a father of three children and lives in Brockton, MA.

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