Local 743 Demands Fair Contracts for Chicago Medical Center Workers

Local 743 Members Rally for Support in Contract Discussions

Contact: Lena Melentijevic Phone: (347) 208-2279 Email: LMelentijevic@teamster.org

In Chicago, Teamsters Local 743 members at Rush University Medical Center and University of Chicago Medical Center are advocating for fair contracts. They argue these new agreements should match the increasing living expenses in the area while recognizing the dedication and expertise these employees bring to their roles.

Debra-Simmons Peterson, President of Local 743, emphasized the importance of the workers at these facilities, stating, “Teamsters at these two medical centers are essential to daily operations and it is past time they be treated as such.” She urged both medical centers to return to negotiations for the betterment of the workers.

Highlighting their financial positions, both medical centers are part of the federal 340B drug pricing program, enabling them to generate substantial revenue from discounted medications intended for underserved communities. With rising yearly revenues, Teamsters are questioning the transparency and accountability in utilizing these funds.

“We have had 18 sessions of negotiations and are still fighting for fair wages. Rush is keeping us at a standstill,” shared Reggie Thomas, a Teamster at Rush University Medical Center. “Cost of living is high. We are beyond ready to be paid a living wage, and we will not stand down until Rush agrees to that.”

Echoing these sentiments, Rick Mosely, who has dedicated four decades to the University of Chicago Medical Center, stated, “All we want is to be fairly compensated.”

La Shawn Ford, a state representative for Chicago’s 8^th District, praised the workers' commitment, “I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary dedication of workers at these hospitals who serve my family and our communities every day. Their commitment to their jobs is what allows for patients and their care to remain the utmost priority. It is imperative that we respect these workers by ensuring they receive fair contracts and wages that reflect the critical work they provide.”

Local 743 proudly represents 10,000 hardworking individuals across health care, mail order, technical, and warehouse sectors. More information is available at teamsterslocal743.com.