Roxanne Bowdoin Leads Creative Protest Against Nursing Home Management

Healthcare Workers Respond to Management's Intimidating Remarks

A recent incident at Cottonwood Healthcare Center, a nursing facility in Woodland, highlighted tensions between management and staff. An administrator reportedly told employees during a meeting, "If you don't like it here, then go and apply at Home Depot." The comment was perceived as part of a pattern of intimidation and disrespect that has been ongoing under the management of Aspen Healthcare.

In response to this, Roxanne Bowdoin, a certified nursing assistant (CNA), organized her colleagues to convey a message to the administration. Utilizing the Halloween spirit, they wore Home Depot aprons to work, sending a humorous yet pointed message. "All the CNAs got together and put on Home Depot aprons," Bowdoin shared. "The (administrator) was very upset."

Bowdoin, known for her organizational skills and leadership, has been a union representative at Cottonwood, serving in this role since 2021. Her involvement in last year's contract negotiations resulted in better wages, shift differentials, and improved healthcare benefits for the staff.

During these negotiations, Bowdoin encouraged her peers to participate actively, emphasizing the power of collective action. "A small voice can make a difference, but if we all come together, it can have a significant impact," she noted.

Recognizing that some employees might fear retaliation, Bowdoin takes it upon herself to speak up as a union delegate. "Sometimes it's a bit stressful," she admitted, balancing her duties at work and her busy life at home.

Balancing Work and Entrepreneurship

Bowdoin's home life is bustling, partly due to her business, Vanilla Bean Dreamz Candle Co.. Established in 2021, the company offers non-toxic candles and other products. The venture began after her homemade Christmas gifts were well-received by friends and family.

With support from her husband Michael, Bowdoin learned the craft through Facebook groups and YouTube videos, mastering different wax types and marketing strategies. Today, she sells her products online, at fairs, and through special orders. The end of the year is particularly busy, as she and her husband work tirelessly to meet demand.

A Strong Advocate for Union Values

Bowdoin values her union membership, especially for the camaraderie and protection it offers against unfair treatment. This belief was reinforced when her husband lost his job at a non-union store after 16 years. "He didn't have job protections," Bowdoin explained. "In the union, we do have job protections. Elsewhere, they let you go without a second thought. Unions are good."