Kaiser Strike Reaches One-Month Mark with Rallies in Pasadena, Oakland

Strikers Rally in Pasadena and Oakland to Mark One Month of Action

Hundreds of striking workers from Kaiser Permanente gathered in Pasadena and Oakland to commemorate a month since the start of their strike. Approximately 300 demonstrators made their presence known at Kaiser's Southern California regional headquarters. Armed with noise makers, sound systems, and bullhorns, the strikers voiced their concerns about understaffing and executive violations.

Expecting the demonstration, Kaiser Permanente had closed its parking garage and increased security. Despite efforts by security to restrict access, the strikers managed to occupy the front entrance for over an hour. Ligia Pacheco, a therapist, stood her ground when asked to move, questioning, "I’m under 5 feet. Why are you afraid of me?"

Among the supporters was patient Lulu Favela, who used her last sick day to join the rally. Workers like ADAPT therapist Kassaundra Gutierrez-Thompson also took the opportunity to speak.

The event gained media attention, being covered by Fox-11, Spectrum TV, the Latin American News Network, and Pasadena Now.

Northern California Solidarity

In Northern California, approximately 50 Kaiser stewards congregated outside the corporate headquarters during their lunch break. Their chants, including "Settle it Now" and "If we don’t get no pension, you don’t get no peace," echoed the sentiments of their Southern counterparts. Social worker Ilana Marcucci-Morris expressed solidarity, declaring, “We in Northern California have been where you are — and we are evidence that staying stronger one day longer than Kaiser is the only way to get the fair contract you and your patients deserve.”

The rally was documented by People's World, who interviewed participants. Photos of the gatherings can be viewed below.

Notable Picket Line Visitors

While the majority attended the rallies, the picket lines had special visitors. Lorena Gonzalez, President of the California Labor Federation, met with strikers in West Los Angeles. In San Diego, Councilmember-elect Michael Inzunza showed his support, with Mayor Todd Gloria expected to visit shortly.

Correcting Misinformation on Social Media

In response to Kaiser’s newspaper advertisements, strikers have taken to social media to present their side of the story. Their posts can be seen on the following platforms:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NUHWunion/posts/pfbid02jPnL7UfiuvkaQGYhN9NPk1bzf1VWatNn3rMAgyvcPZLGQ47gbSinagNJo7RR17qxl
• Twitter: https://x.com/NUHW/status/1859251357426860372
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYYx19Rd
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DCmIjlsPKBk/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Celebrating New Life Amidst the Strike

In a heartwarming note, Martha Ton attended the strike line before being induced and welcomed her new baby, Ari, later that day.

Thanksgiving Week Plans

Strikers will pause picketing on Thursday and Friday of Thanksgiving week. Monday will feature a themed picket line with "Where’s Waldo/Where’s Kaiser" attire. With increased participation this week, the energy is expected to continue into the next.

Support for Strikers

The strike received a $10,000 donation from the American Federation of Teachers. Details for applying for hardship funds are available here and applications can be submitted here.

Picket Line Photos

For a visual recap of the strike activities, see the gallery below and explore more on NUHW's social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.