Member Voices: Kilra Hylton

Aug 24, 2012

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Kilra Hytlon, Personal Care Attendant, Boston







Q: What made you want to get involved in the union?



A: A friend of mine told me that if you’re involved in a union that somebody would fight for you and that your job would be secured and you would have the best in benefits.



Q: What would you tell non-union PCAs about 1199SEIU?

A: Since I’ve been a part of the union, I’ve met other PCAs. So many of the PCAs that are my friends are a part of the union. However, the people that I meet when I’m canvassing don’t always respond well because they don’t want to pay into PAC. But I just say that everything in life you have to pay into, car insurance, life insurance, although you don’t see the benefits right away. But when you pay into PAC, it’s something that’s always working for you, even when you’re sleeping.



Q: You currently are an MPO. Tell me about that experience?

A: We’re working in community action in the urban neighborhoods where a lot of people don’t vote. On a good day, maybe one or two people that you talk to will be really enthusiastic and want to talk. Sometimes it can be discouraging when people don’t want to get involved in their community. Everybody wants to complain, but we’re trying to knock on doors so that people can be active in their communities and have a voice.



Q: PCAs just won a new contract. What parts of it you are most excited about?

A: I’m happy about the raise. It’s a couple of cents but it really makes a difference. I’m encouraged by that. When I wasn’t a part of the union, there were pay increases but I wasn’t involved. Sitting at the bargaining table now and seeing there is someone really fighting for my job is encouraging. And not just my job, the benefits, everything.



Q: What do you hope will happen in the future for PCAs, in terms of the union, future contracts, etc.?

A: I would like to see more PCAs involved with the union. And I would definitely like to see better benefits for the consumers. And I would definitely like to see the orientation bill passed, because there are a lot of flaws in our field and people need to be oriented so that can be fit for their positions.