Willie Burnley Jr

Willie Burnley Jr is a queer community organizer, renter, and former union steward with Teamsters 122 who has fought to create a better world his entire life. From the frontlines of our most pressing movements for economic, racial, and environmental justice to staffing the re-election campaigns of both of Massachusetts’ U.S. Senators, Willie has seen firsthand what’s possible when we come together to actualize our shared values. He is running to become the Mayor of Somerville because he knows that, now more than ever, we need local leaders who will stand up for our immigrant neighbors, for our trans youth, and will show that government can be a force for everyday good in our lives.

After making Somerville his home upon graduating from Emerson College, Willie suffered the life-altering stress of displacement when his landlord raised his rent by hundreds of dollars, forcing him to leave the city and the state. That’s why, as the most prolific legislator on the Somerville City Council, Willie ensured that his community’s demands for expanded tenant rights, safer streets, and increased accessibility were turned into law. As mayor, he will have the power and perspective necessary to turn them into a reality. Willie understands deeply the economic pain that many residents face and knows that they deserve a mayor that will act with urgency to create a Somerville that is more affordable, accessible, and accountable.