NUHW recognized as “Union of the Year” in Humboldt and Del Norte counties
Capping off a year in which NUHW members in Humboldt County repeatedly demonstrated for safe staffing amid severe service reductions at their hospitals, the Humboldt Del Norte Central Labor Council named NUHW its Union of the Year.
NUHW members at St. Joseph Eureka and Redwood Memorial hospitals staged multiple rallies in protest of layoffs that have made their hospitals less safe while further enriching Providence St. Joseph Health, their employer which in 2017 reported a $50 million combined profit from the two hospitals.
Earlier this year, in tandem with the California Nurses Association, NUHW members held a town hall on the state of health care in Humboldt County, convening residents and civic leaders to learn more about how Providence St. Joseph is undermining local care.
“The committee recognized their activity over the past year in fighting for patient safety,” said John Frahm, the labor council’s secretary-treasurer. “We appreciate NUHW’s steadfast commitment to the community and to work with many different community groups to address issues of patient safety. We also recognize the work that NUHW has done in organizing more non-union workers into the unionized labor force.”
Several NUHW members attended the labor council’s recent award banquet to receive the honor and address their fellow union members.
“It was a great honor to be recognized for our commitment to our patients and our community,” said Simeon McLean, a CT/MRI technologist. “It has been frustrating to see St. Joseph cut jobs and services, and chronically understaff vital patient care and clerical positions. But we are determined to continue holding them accountable and demanding easy access for everybody in Humboldt County.”
NUHW President Sal Rosselli added: “Everyone in our union is proud of the great work our members in Humboldt County are doing. They are united, dedicated and selfless, and they are committed to improving their hospitals and serving their community.”
