Kaiser Workers End Hunger Strike, Push for Mental Health Parity

Kaiser Workers Conclude Hunger Strike with Strong Support

After five days of protest, eight Kaiser workers have ended their hunger strike, surrounded by their allies, including fellow employees and clergy. Their demonstration aimed to push Kaiser Permanente to honor the dignity and respect of behavioral health care services and its stakeholders. Support came from various quarters, with visits from colleagues, patients, and notable figures such as Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who stopped by earlier today.

Media attention has been significant, with KTLA conducting interviews with the hunger strikers and NPR finalizing a story on this campaign for mental health parity at Kaiser. A video of Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine visiting the strikers earlier this week has also been shared widely.

Protest Actions Highlight Mental Health Advocacy

This Wednesday, a dynamic picket was organized outside the Health Evolution Summit in Dana Point, where Kaiser CEO Greg Adams was a key speaker. During the event, protestors displayed a lengthy crocheted banner declaring a “Mental Health Revolution.” More about this banner, crafted over a month by several strikers, can be found in this Medium commentary.

Beyond the summit, protestors distributed leaflets in Greg Adams’ neighborhood in Laguna Beach, amplifying their message.

Engaging Kaiser Board Members through Direct Action

Efforts to communicate with Kaiser board members included distributing leaflets outside Rothy's in San Diego, a shoe store chain managed by Kaiser Board Member Jenny Ming. Ming's previous business affiliations raise concerns, as a factory linked to her former company was accused of “sweatshop practices” by the California labor commissioner. Ming, earning $248,772 annually as a board member, has overseen periods where Kaiser faced $54 million in fines for mental health violations.

Upcoming Advocacy Events

This Saturday, strikers will participate in the “Fighting Oligarchy” tour featuring Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Los Angeles. Kaiser strikers are slated to take the stage, with two members delivering remarks. Interested individuals can RSVP here for the event at Gloria Molina Grand Park, with doors opening at 9 a.m. and speeches commencing at 1 p.m.

For those interested in joining the picket line, a picket shift sign-up form is available.

Documenting the Movement

Photos from the picket line can be viewed below, with more images accessible on the National Union of Healthcare Workers' social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

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