We have begun bargaining our first contract!

We have had two bargaining sessions with Providence. We have proposed language that establishes our general working conditions. Providence countered with their own definitions which don’t reflect what we currently have in-place. This made it very clear to your bargaining team that Providence does not take us seriously. They have shown us they are willing to take whatever steps needed to prevent us from having a strong and effective contract.

We have decided that we need to take collective action. This action will show Providence that we are NOT afraid, we are NOT weak, and we will NOT be bullied.

Our landslide vote was just the beginning. We need to continue with this momentum.

Our next bargaining session is on July 28, 2020. As we move onto crucial proposals such as wages, PTO/EIB, and retirement we need to build our strength! Your bargaining team has decided, given with the current times, to show our solidarity by wearing face masks with the UFCW 21 logo. By wearing the face mask, we will show Providence that the Techs stand united and are willing to fight for our futures!

We will be passing out the masks prior to our Stand Up to Providence Action on August 4th & 5th, 2020. We have chosen those days because we will be bargaining with Providence on August 6, 2020. This action is crucial as it will influence how Providence responds to our proposals. Please remind your co-workers of the upcoming dates and to wear their masks! We will also be asking the RNs to stand in solidarity with us and wear UFCW 21 masks. The RNs are a large and powerful group and their support will show Providence that we are not alone!

In addition, Providence is currently regrouping from the contract fight last year. UFCW 21 represented nine nursing, professional, technical, and service bargaining units and authorized a strike in coalition with SEIU and WSNA against Providence. Because of this, they were able to win a strong contract! Recently Providence Centralia’s Technical and Service units have voted for UFCW 21 to represent them and will be in negotiations at the same time as us. This is good for us and Centralia. Also, Providence Everett RN contract will expire this year and they will be bargaining at the same time as us. We will have strength in numbers, strength in the desire to prevail, and strength in timing.

Please know that your bargaining team is working for you, but we can’t do this alone. Encourage your fellow coworkers! Anyone you see wearing the UFCW 21 face mask or UFCW 21 apparel, give them a nod or wave. Spread the word by posting on both the RN and Tech FB page, thank a nurse or anyone you see supporting us because this is truly just the beginning.

Sincerely, your Technical Unit Bargaining Committee,
Shapel Morgan (X-ray), Josh Wood (CT), Colleen Castenada (CATH Lab), and Rae Lynn Korpi (RT)

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact your bargaining team or Union Rep, Erin McCoy, 206-436-6598