Tom Morello Supports Hunger Strikers at Kaiser Mental Health Protest

April 9, 2025 April 9, 2025

Editorial Staff

Hunger Strike Gains Momentum with Celebrity Support and Media Coverage

The hunger strike organized outside LAMC continues to gain traction as it enters its second day. The event marked a memorable moment when Tom Morello, the former guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, visited and performed. Morello played four songs, including “This Land is My Land,” and remarked that if Pete Seeger were alive, he would have joined the picket line.

Media coverage of the strike is expanding, with outlets such as NPR and KTLA reporting on the event. Despite attempts by Kaiser management officials to intimidate the strikers during media interviews, the participants remained steadfast. Interested individuals can RSVP here to visit the hunger strikers, who will be present outside the hospital on Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Picketing and Upcoming Events in Orange County

The protest action will extend to Orange County on Wednesday, where demonstrators will picket the Health Evolution Summit. Kaiser CEO Greg Adams is scheduled to speak at the summit, and the protest will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those wishing to join can RSVP here. Afterward, there will be a leaflet distribution in Greg Adams' neighborhood in Laguna Hills.

Participation in Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez Rally

Kaiser strikers have been invited to participate on stage during the “Fighting Oligarchy” rally led by Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Los Angeles this Saturday. California Labor Federation President Lorena Gonzalez will address the audience about the strike. Attendees can RSVP here. Doors will open at 9 a.m., with the speaking segment starting at 1 p.m. at Gloria Molina Grand Park, 137 N. Broadway.

Online Town Hall to Discuss Strike Issues

The National Association of Social Workers is organizing an online Town Hall in solidarity with the strike. Strikers will share insights into the challenges faced within the Kaiser system and their experiences on the picket line. The Town Hall will take place this Thursday from noon to 1:30 p.m. Interested participants can register here.

New Complaint Against Kaiser Sparks Media Attention

A recent complaint filed with the California Department of Managed Health Care alleges Kaiser is using unlicensed staff and algorithms for mental health triage. Courthouse News covered the story, highlighting the ongoing issues.

Join the Picket Line and View Striking Photos

Supporters can sign up for picket line shifts using the picket shift sign-up form. Additionally, a gallery of photos from the strike is available below, with more images shared on NUHW's social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.