In a show of unity and determination, hundreds of nurses and radiology technologists employed at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a three-day unfair labor practice (ULP) strike. The strike is scheduled to commence on September 11, 2023, at 0700 hours.

Negotiations between the registered nurses and the hospital administration have been ongoing since 2022 under contract extensions. Frustrated by the lack of progress and the hospital's alleged illegal activities, OPEIU Local 40 conducted a ULP strike vote, with 100% participation of eligible voters resulting in a clear mandate to authorize the three-day strike.

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is actively investigating numerous charges of illegal activity by the hospital. Among the charges filed are the hospital's illegal threats against bargaining unit members, the ban on union nurses and radiology technologists from hospital premises accompanied by threats of arrest, the refusal to provide relevant information for negotiations, regressive bargaining, and overall bad faith bargaining. Currently, there are 16 outstanding unfair labor practice charges being investigated by the NLRB, and we anticipate that Complaints will be issued shortly. These charges highlight the hospital's alleged violation of labor laws and its disregard for the rights of its employees.

“It is our hope that this situation serves as a wake-up call to the administration, urging them to reevaluate their priorities and actively address the concerns raised by those advocating for patients’ safety and protections. The well-being of the patients should always be at the forefront of any healthcare institution, and it is high time that the administration aligns their actions with this essential principle and core Catholic Values ”- Dina Carlisle RN - OPEIU Regional VP, Local 40 President

“The nurses and radiology technologists at Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital are dedicated professionals who provide critical care to patients in our community. It is regrettable that we have been forced to take this action as a last resort. We have been left with no choice but to stand up for our rights, our patients and demand fair treatment”-Cassandra Bell RN, APRH Nurse Unit Vice President

“The administration’s dismissive approach not only undermines the efforts of those advocating for meaningful change but also raises serious questions about their commitment to the wellbeing of their patients and staff” -Michelle Foster Nuc. Med Technologist, APRH Radiology Technologists Vice President

OPEIU Local 40 nurses and radiology technologists remain committed to advocating for their patient’s safety and ensuring their rights are protected. We call upon Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital to engage in meaningful negotiations, cease all illegal activities, and work towards a fair and respectful resolution that benefits both the patients, employees and the hospital.

President Dina Carlisle RN (586) 909-5400, dcarlisle@opeiulocal40.org

Organizer Leah Derr (586) 569-9039, lderr@opeiulocal40.org

WHEN: Monday, September 11, 2023 at 7:00 am through Thursday, September 14, 2023 at 6:59 am.

WHERE: Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, 1101 W University Dr, Rochester, MI 48307

WHAT: OPEIU Local 40 will conduct an unfair labor practice strike against Ascension Providence   Rochester Hospital

WHO: Nurses and Radiology Technologists, Union Allies and Community Members.

About OPEIU Local 40:

OPEIU Local 40 represents a diverse group of healthcare professionals, including nurses, radiology technologists, and medical service employees who are committed to providing high-quality care to patients. The union advocates for patient safety, fair working conditions, competitive wages, and a safe and respectful workplace environment for its members. Local 40 is a founding member of the OPEIU Nurses Council, which represents more than 27,000 healthcare professionals nationwide.