Persis Yu

Persis Yu earned a bachelor's degree from Mount Holyoke College in 2003, a graduate degree from the University of Washington School of Social Work in 2006, and a law degree from the Seattle University School of Law in 2009. Her career experience includes working as an advocate.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Persis Yu is running for State Senate because families need a champion who will put people before corporate profits and safeguard our democracy from authoritarian threats.

The daughter of an immigrant who fled fascism, long-time Hyde Park resident Persis knows firsthand the dangers of government corruption, repression, and economic insecurity. She has seen how fear and scarcity are weaponized to divide communities, and she's determined to ensure that Massachusetts remains a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and justice. As a parent of two Boston Public School kids, she'll fight for the families of Boston, Dedham, Norwood, Walpole, and Westwood to secure a future for our children where they will not just survive, but thrive.

For nearly two decades, Persis has been one of the nation’s fiercest advocates for families, workers, and consumers. She has taken on the biggest banks, loan servicers, and even multiple presidential administrations—suing Betsy DeVos, Linda McMahon, Bank of America, and MOHELA when they hurt consumers. Her strategic, bold, and innovative policymaking has already transformed millions of lives: she designed key pieces of the Biden Administration’s SAVE plan, fought for loan forgiveness that has cancelled nearly $200 billion in debts, and won critical protections for veterans, teachers, and working families. Where others have settled for half-measures, Persis has relentlessly pursued the end goal—economic justice and freedom from debt.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Persis is fighting for a bold vision of Massachusetts where families come before corporations and billionaires and a real democracy that welcomes every voice and ensures freedom for all.Persis is fighting for a fair economy with affordable housing and childcare, reliable transit, and robust worker rights.Persis is fighting for clean air and water, affordable health care, and a future where our children can thrive.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Affordability, transparency, and democracy.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

UAW Region 9A, Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts; Reproductive Equity Now, Sierra Club Endorsed, Progressive Mass, JP Progressives, Progressive West Roxbury/Roslindale, Neponsit Valley Progressives, Mass Alliance, New England Chinese American Alliance, Act on Mass, Our Revolution Massachusetts, Massachusetts Teachers Association, Erin Boles Welsh - Dedham Select Board, Emma Reidy - Dedham Board of Health, Leah Flynn-Gallant - Dedham School Committee, Rick Michalka - Dedham School Committee, Jessica Porter - Dedham Planning Board, Amanda Warner - Dedham Library Board, Matthew Lane - Chair Norwood Selectmen Board, Ben Moser - Norwood School Committee, Michael Sangalang - Norwood School Committee, Erin Sibley - Westwood Select Board