The scholarship is awarded yearly to either graduate students or entering freshmen or transfer students to any of the University of Washington's three campuses (Seattle, Tacoma, or Bothell). In their applications, students must show commitment to the principles of justice and equality and demonstrate financial need. Students with an interest in labor studies or a family background in labor and social justice are encouraged to apply.

Students must demonstrate financial need according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify. Low-income, non-citizen students unable to file a FAFSA due to immigration status may instead complete the free Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). More information can be found at the UW Student Financial Aid website. Those who do not meet FAFSA/WASFA requirements will be considered for other scholarships offered by the Bridges Center.

If you have applied to the University of Washington but have not yet received notice from the Admissions Office, you are eligible for the scholarship. However, the award will be contingent on your admittance to the UW.

• 1st Year
• 2nd Year
• 3rd Year
• 4th Year
• Graduate

• US Citizen
• Permanent Resident
• International or Other Visa Status
• Undocumented

The Domingo-Viernes Scholarship provides $6,000 in financial support to either graduate students or entering freshmen or transfer students to the University of Washington who are committed to the principles of justice and equality and have demonstrated financial need. Students at any of the University of Washington's three campuses (Seattle, Tacoma, or Bothell) are eligible.

To apply, a student should verify that they have financial need according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (or WASFA, if applicable) and prepare the necessary materials.

The online application for all Labor Studies scholarships and fellowships for the current academic year opens in Winter Quarter. A link to the on-line application portal will be posted on the Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies website. By submitting the on-line application, you will be considered for all Labor Studies awards you qualify for. 

Founded through the efforts of the Inland boatmen's Union, Region 37, this scholarship honors Silme Domingo and Gene Viernes, two inspiring leaders of the Seattle labor movement. Gene grew up on a farm in the Yakima Valley and began working in the Alaska salmon canneries at the young age of 16. Gene was a state wrestling champion and attended Central Washington State College on a full ride athletic scholarship. Silme graduated with honors from the University of Washington and went on to found the Seattle chapter of the Union of Democratic Filipinos. Together, they formed the Alaska Cannery Workers Association and fought the brutal working conditions and racist management of the industry.

Despite opposition from all sides, Gene and Silme founded the Rank and File Committee in 1977 to struggle for union democracy and fair working conditions. They were elected to the leadership of International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 37 in 1980, and worked hard to build links and solidarity with the people of the Philippines. Tragically, both were murdered on June 1, 1981. Corrupt former Local 37 President Tony Baruso and Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos were later implicated in the assassination. Their memory lives on as inspiration to workers and students striving for justice.

Terms of the Domingo Viernes Scholarship can be found via the program website.

Harry Bridges Center for Labor Studies
University of Washington
Box 353530
hbcls@u.washington.edu