SEIU and ACORN

October 7, 2009

What is SEIU's position on ACORN?
Recently, ACORN has come under fire for video footage recorded by undercover operatives posing as a prostitute and her companion seeking tax and housing advice at five ACORN offices.  This comes after a series of issues relating to financial misconduct, and problems in voter registration.

The behaviors seen on the video and some improper handling of voter registraiton by individuals are unacceptable, and ACORN did the right thing by taking immediate action against the responsible individuals.

At the same time, SEIU has been watching this unfolding story with concern.

Andy Stern recently joined other well respected national figures, such as John Podesta, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, and Henry Cisneros, on ACORN's Advisory Council.  Along with fellow Council Members, he has encouraged ACORN to take dramatic steps to resolve the underlying problems.  As a result of the Advisory Council's guidance, ACORN announced that former Massachusetts Attorney General Scott Harshbarger would lead an independent, aggressive, thorough and far-reaching review intot he organizational systems and processes surrounding the social services ACORN provides.  Nothing less can be acceptable.

At the same time, we must recognize the importance and need for services and organizations that address issues faced by low- and moderate-income families.  ACORN's challenge, if they want to continue to be a national organization that provides these services, is to immediately conduct an internal investigation to swiftly and completely root out their underlying problems and make sure these issues never come up again.

What is SEIU's relationship with ACORN?
SEIU has worked with ACORN on a number of initiatives geared toward helping low- and moderate-income families make a better life.  While over the years we have contracted with ACORN for voter registration, canvassing efforts, and organizing work, we have suspended all active work with ACORN while former Massachusetts Attorney General Scott Harshbarger conducts his review of the organization.

SEIU has contracted with ACORN on specific organizing and political projects involving activities such as convassing, field services, phone banking, and mobilizing people for demonstrations.

Once the investigation is completed and Mr. Harshbarger makes his recommendations, we will reevaluate our work with ACORN.