Biography

Israel has deep roots in the community service. He's been a big believer in paying it forward, volunteering, and finding purpose in the pursuit of helping others. Growing up in Trinidad, Israel was born into a family of pastors who planted several churches. It was from these churches his mother and father came to the assistance of  families living in impoverished areas where they provided food and clothing for many in need. The struggles and injustice he witnessed while growing up only fueled his determination to fight for economic and social justice. This experience instilled in him the value that the well-being of one person is uniquely interconnected to the well-being of all. Israel moved to the US in 2002 and in 2005 he welcomed his daughter into the world as a proud dad!

In 2008, he became a member of Local 509 and immediately joined his colleagues in the fight for a better union contract. Not too long after, he would go on to become a steward and got involved in the Local's Quality Care Campaign. In that role he pushed then Gov. Deval Patrick's administration for more funding in human services. Although that campaign was unsuccessful, he doubled down on his efforts to continue the fight. Since then, Israel has been at the forefront of many of Local 509's major victories. He has worked hard to improve the lives of working families by strengthening and uniting human service workers and educators around the issues of workers' rights, immigrant rights, racial equality, climate justice, and quality affordable healthcare for all. He continues to lead in building the financial strength of the local for the sole benefit of all members. 

To learn more about Israel, his goals and vision, please contact us or message us in the chatbox below.