NUHW Picket Lines Expand Amid Ongoing Kaiser Mental Health Strike

Union Members Rally as Picket Lines Expand Across Southern California

Excitement was palpable today as demonstrators gathered with chants, music, and food, reflecting the strong turnout for the day. Despite concurrent bargaining sessions, the call for more participation remains, as the picket line is seen as a vital expression of support for the ongoing strike. Participants are encouraged to sign up for shifts here to bolster numbers in the coming weeks.

Today featured the inaugural picket lines in Downey and Lancaster, alongside the second day of demonstrations in Fontana and San Diego. Notable media outlets, ABC-10 and Courthouse News, provided coverage of the events. The rallies were further bolstered by the presence of elected officials and union support from groups such as the Teamsters, Steelworkers, United Food and Commercial Workers, and SEIU-UHW.

Maurice Turman from San Diego and Kassaundra Gutierrez Thompson from Los Angeles articulated concerns about inadequate time for quality care, highlighting reasons for the strike.

Bargaining Efforts Continue

The NUHW Bargaining Committee engaged in talks with Kaiser today. For a detailed update, refer to the bargaining update.

Upcoming Halloween Gathering

Plans are underway for a Halloween gathering in West L.A., inviting as many participants as possible for a day of camaraderie and enjoyment. Those interested in attending can fill out this form to arrange transportation from their picket locations to the West L.A. Medical Center.

Support from NASW

In a statement to members, the National Association of Social Workers, California Chapter (NASW CA), expressed deep concern over the mental health crisis exacerbated by COVID-19. They highlighted the burdens faced by clinicians, including overwhelming workloads and insufficient compensation and working conditions.

The NASW emphasizes the critical role of social workers and clinical practitioners in mental health care delivery, voicing solidarity with striking Kaiser Permanente mental health providers. They call for improved working conditions and pay, stressing that "Kaiser Permanente must return to the negotiation table and address these critical issues."

Kimberly Warmsley, Executive Director of NASW-CA, stated, “The time is now to ensure realistic working conditions and provide equitable pay and recognition for professionals who deliver essential services.” The NASW urges community support for the striking clinicians through contributions to the National Union of Healthcare Workers' hardship relief fund. More information on the strike can be found at kaiserdontdeny.org and donations can be made at https://lnkd.in/gKUGh-5x.

The NASW commends the dedication of Kaiser Permanente social workers in Southern California, advocating for a fair mental health system that ensures timely therapy appointments and compliance with state laws.

The community is urged to support the ongoing efforts for fair treatment of mental health providers and the quality care they deliver to patients.

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