Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center Techs call to action!

CALL TO ACTION!  

We finally got Back to the table on May 9, which is nearly a month after our last session and nine days after our return to work from our successful Stike. Unfortunately, today during negotiations no ground was gained. We return to contract negotiations on May 28 and May 29. 

“Providence made it clear that they have never perceived themselves to be ahead or a leader in the local market, nor do they want to be.  Our bargaining team’s determination is unyielding in the face of corporate greed.” – Providence Sacred Heart Technical Unit Bargaining Team: Derek Roybal, Janelle Mathias, Craig Kistler, Lee Lidman, Joe Sikkila, Shane Sullivan, Miriam Critelli, Teresa Bowden, Angela Holmes, Holly Granly. 

Today we call on every one of our coworkers who found themselves moved by our unity and collective power, to join us in stepping up and volunteering to be a union steward in your dept and shift.  

Over the next couple of weeks we will be expanding our workplace leaders throughout the hospital and invite you to join us for Union Steward training virtually or in-person. NOW is the time to show that we are continuing to organize for retention, recruitment, and patient care for our community.  

UNION STEWARD TRAINING

Please rsvp to Jackie Williams at jwilliams@ufcw3000.org.  

May 15 at 6PM

In Person at the UFCW 3000 Spokane Office: 2805 N Market St., Spokane, WA 99205 

Monday May 20 at 6PM

Join Zoom Meeting  
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87131881290?pwd=UDNZMUp4VytGNVFxMFQxZVNkdlRkZz09  

Meeting ID: 871 3188 1290  
Passcode: 893823  

Thursday May 23 at 6PM

Join Zoom Meeting  
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83378239210?pwd=QWM1MkpsM1dZZzNrSUpKQVV2Tmhjdz09  

Meeting ID: 833 7823 9210  
Passcode: 540340  

Thank you with deepest gratitude to all of the community members, co-workers and patients who supported us during the strike. We plan to send out complete list with our next updates  

Providence Sacred Heart Techs Join us to end the strike strong!

Join us to end the Strike strong

Our Unfair Labor Practice strike will end today April 30 at 8:30 pm. Join us anytime for the rest of the day to end the strike strong! Particularly, the last few hours we’d like as many members and their families to walk in solidarity on the lines and cheer on our coworkers on as they return to work.

Below are answers that we received from Providence regarding return to work, and should match the same information you will be receiving from the Hospital. If you have any questions, please ask Union staff on the strike line today or call Union Representative Juanita Quezada, 509-340-7407.

When do we return to work?

Providence Direct Leaders started reaching out to members yesterday and today regarding return to work.  If you are scheduled to work today (Tuesday) and would otherwise be on shift at 8:30 pm, you should plan to work the remainder of your scheduled shift following the end of the strike. You will be paid for work time starting at 8:30 pm.
Examples: If you are scheduled to work at 7:30 pm, you should report to work at 8:30 pm. If your scheduled shift ends at 9:00 pm, you should report to work at 8:30 pm to work the last part of the shift. Any questions, please reach out to your direct leader at Providence.

What about badges, parking, and entering the building?

All badges will be reactivated shortly before the end of the strike. Please let your direct leader know if your badge is not reactivated. The employee garage doors will be open and accessible to everyone. When you arrive, please only enter through the L3 entrance. Members will be asked to wait in the Mother Joseph Room until units are ready. Light treats and beverages will be available.

When will our bargaining team return to negotiations?

The Union has requested bargaining dates from Providence and they have committed to responding to us after the strike ends. We will continue to provide updates on next steps and future bargaining dates.

When will we receive our strike pay benefits?

The Union will be calculating hours on the strike line this week and strike benefit checks will be sent via regular mail to the address listed on your W9 the week of May 6. Updates will be sent out via email and text. Stay tuned!

Providence Sacred Heart Techs Weekend Plans on the Strike Line!

Join us on Saturday for FEED THE LINE

We will have the Blue Apron Brigade (The Babs) delivering food and support we received from the Community in the area at various times in the day. Who are the Babs you may ask? Well come to the Strike line on Saturday and you won’t miss them.They’re the fun people wearing Blue aprons with FOOD!

• Breakfast will be delivered to the strike lines around 7:00am and is from Panera Bread.

• Lunch will be near the Check-In tent around 12pm and it is TECH-SASS STYLE BBQ from Fresh Soul. We will have folks relieve people from each strike line in groups so that you can grab lunch at the tent.

• Dinner will be delivered to each strike line around 3:00pm and will be from Las Delicias de Isla.

• Dinner will be delivered to each strike line around 5:30pm and is from Ricuras Caribeñas.

• Some Community members may be dropping by with goodies throughout the day as well!

"Why is Providence afraid to face us?”

—Join us on Sunday for Family day of Sweet Treats and Face painting! A face painter will be at the Check-In Tent from 11am to 4pm. Bring the children!

Providence Sacred Heart Techs ULP Strike Day 2 update

Amazing turnout of workers and community the first two days of the strike! We will be sending out short updates throughout the strike- today is an important update regarding your strike benefits and an invitation to join the Rally tomorrow night 4/24 at 7pm in Cowley Park.

Please help pass the word to friends and family- and wear your best western themed clothing for a Sunset showdown Rally in support of the Technical workers. We’ll be joined by community and legislative speakers… we hope to see you there!

WHAT IS MY STRIKE BENEFIT?    

Our Union Executive Board has approved strike fund benefits for represented workers of: 

• $500/week for picketing a minimum of 20 hours a week, 

• $800/week for picketing a minimum of 32 hours or more a week, 

• $200/week “Respect the Line Benefit” for those who cannot join their colleagues on the strike line but respect the strike line and do not cross. *Respect the Line Benefit only available on full week.  

  Since this is an 8.5 day strike, there are an extra two days that represented workers are eligible for strike benefits: 

• Week 1: Monday April 22 – Sunday April 28: Receive benefit above based on hours on the strike line 

• Week 2: Monday April 29 – Tuesday April 30: Strike Benefit will be pro-rated: 

• $200 for picketing 8-12 hr

• $320 for picketing more than 12 hr

Our health care workers are standing up for fair treatment and safe patient care at Sacred Heart.

Come by at 7 PM to meet striking workers and prepare for a sunset solidarity rally, with voices from the hospital and our community. Let’s show Sacred Heart workers that this community has their back!

Our health care workers are standing up for fair treatment and safe patient care at Sacred Heart. https://www.mobilize.us/ufcw3000/event/620522/
 

Providence Sacred Heart Techs ULP Strike starts on April 22

ULP Strike starts on April 22

On Monday April 22 at 2pm our unfair labor practice (ULP) strike at Providence Sacred Heart begins. The most important thing is that as we leave our shifts, there is a continuum of patient care. We cannot abandon our patients and should follow Providence’s instructions for safe transfer of work. Technical workers whose shift starts prior to 2pm on April 22 should report to their shift and at 2pm should give report and safely transfer their assignment to a replacement worker. If there is no replacement worker to transfer your assignment to, then you should continue working your shift until you can safely transfer your assignment (this may be at the end of your shift). Once you have safely transferred your assignment then you can join us on the strike line!

If you do not work on April 22, please join us on the strike line starting at 2pm so we can welcome our coworkers who have walked off their shifts. You may sign in on Day 1 on the strike line OR at the sign in Tent on 8th and McClellan St.

The strike will conclude on April 30 at 8:30pm. As this is a ULP strike, Providence must offer all technical workers an unconditional return to work. This means that technical workers should expect to work their next regular or call shift following April 30 at 8:30pm. If your regular or call shift on April 30 starts before 8:30pm, Providence will communicate instructions. We expect that supervisors will send out return-to-work instructions on or before April 29.

While we encourage all technical workers to join us on the strike line throughout our 8-day ULP strike, we recognize that personal circumstances may influence individual decisions regarding participation. If you choose to strike, please adhere to Providence's instructions.

For any questions or concerns, please reach out to your Union Representative Juanita Quezada, 509-340-7407.

For more information about our ULP strike please visit ufcw3000.org/strike >>

Providence Sacred Heart Tech ULP Strike FAQ

Providence Sacred Heart Technical Unit Frequently Asked Questions

Next Monday April 22 at 2pm we will begin our Unfair Labor Practice Strike- for our patients, community, and each other. Updates will be sent via email and text before and during the strike to keep all Techs updated and answer questions. The best way to get our questions answered during the strike, is on the strike line itself.

Below are the top questions from Techs- please reach out to your Strike Captains and Union Representative Juanita Quezada with any questions. If you are interested in being a Strike Captain and taking a leadership role on the strike line, please join us for an in-person Strike Captain meeting tomorrow April 19 at 6pm at the UFCW 3000 Spokane Office.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS   

IF I AM WORKING AT 2PM WHEN THE STRIKE BEGINS, WHEN WOULD I JOIN THE STRIKE LINE? 

You should join the strike line as soon as you are able to give report and hand off your patient assignment in a safe manner. If there is no one who can take your assignment at 2PM on April 22, then you should work until the end of your shift and then hand off your assignment as you would normally and then join us on the picket line. Providence will likely communicate prior to the strike the plan for relieving Techs from shift, and UFCW 3000 has requested Sacred Heart’s plan for these hand-offs to ensure that they take place as smoothly as possible.  

IF I AM TOLD TO LEAVE MY SHIFT BEFORE 2PM ON APRIL 22 WHAT SHOULD I DO?

You should document who from management told you to leave your shift early and ask if you will be paid for the remainder of your shift. Then you should join the picket line. If you are relieved early, report this to your Union Rep.

WHEN DO I RETURN TO WORK? 

You will return to work on your next scheduled shift that begins after Tuesday April 30 at 8:30 pm. UFCW 3000 will also be requesting guidance from Providence and will keep members informed throughout the strike.  
 
Do i have to work on-call shifts during the strike?   
No. The reason for the 10-day notice is to give the Employer time to seek replacement workers during the strike to cover all shifts, including on-call.

WILL I LOSE MY JOB IF I GO ON STRIKE?   

You cannot be legally fired. You can be permanently replaced only if the strike is caused solely by economic issues and only after the actual hiring of a permanent replacement for your position. Our strike is called to protest unfair labor practices by the employer, and in this case the employer cannot legally hire a permanent replacement for you unless the NLRB determines that this was solely an economic strike. However, you may certain job protections if you engage in activity such as harassing those who choose to cross the picket line.  

CAN I RETURN TO MY SAME JOB AND SHIFT?   

Yes- during an Unfair Labor Practice Strike, your employer must offer you an unconditional return to work. In an economic strike, a “return to work” agreement is usually negotiated prior to the conclusion of any strike. We will insist, as part of the “return to work” agreement that each Tech is returned to their job, unit, and shift. If Techs stay unified in striking, we are more likely to prevail in negotiations for a “return to work” agreement.   

WHAT IF Providence LOCKS US OUT?  

If Providence chooses to lockout employees, they have to lockout all employees including non-members. Workers locked out by their employers are generally eligible for unemployment benefits. The Employment Security Department will determine eligibility for unemployment benefits on a case-by-case basis.  

CAN I GET UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN ON STRIKE? DO I ACCRUE PTO/EIB WHEN ON STRIKE?   

You will not accrue PTO or EIB while you are on strike. The Employment Security Department determines eligibility for unemployment benefits on as case by case basis for workers in a labor dispute.  

CAN I USE ACCRUED EIB OR PAID TIME OFF BENEFITS?  

Although an employer may not discriminate against strikers with respect to the use of paid time off during a strike, an employer is not required to allow strikers to use their accrued paid time or other benefits during a strike unless they are otherwise entitled to do so. If you submitted a vacation request before the strike and it was approved in accordance with Providence’s established policies, Providence must pay the paid time  benefits even though the approved paid time  occurs while you are on strike.   

WILL I STILL HAVE HEALTHCARE DURING THE STRIKE?  

Yes. There is a lag month under your health insurance plan that would keep your insurance through the end April.

WHAT IS MY STRIKE BENEFIT?   

Our Union Executive Board has approved strike fund benefits for members and non-members of:
$500/week for picketing a minimum of 20 hours a week,
$800/week for picketing a minimum of 32 hours or more a week,
$200/week “Respect the Line Benefit” for those who cannot join their colleagues on the strike line but respect the strike line and do not cross.
 
Since this is an 8-day strike, there is one additional day for Techs to have an opportunity to get enough hours to receive strike benefits. The Union will only pay one week of benefits and encourages everyone to picket at least 32 hours.
 
Our union also has a strike hardship fund to assist members whose families face difficult financial situations. If you are in a hardship position, please let the Union know so that you can apply for assistance. We are also working closely with other local labor unions and community organizations to coordinate resources for striking workers.

IS THERE PAPERWORK I NEED TO FILL OUT FOR MY STRIKE BENEFIT?  WHEN WILL I BE PAID?

To receive Union Strike Benefits, YOU will need to complete a W9 Form online or in-person at the Strike Sign-In Tent. Strike Checks will be mailed to the address listed on your W9 no later than the week of May 6. In order to not have a delay in receiving your check, please make sure to Sign In and Out on each shift, so that your hours are recorded accurately.

WHAT ARE MY PERSONAL OBLIGATIONS IF WE GO ON STRIKE?   

Do not cross the picket line! Our Strike Remains Strong when workers respect the picket line. Take your share of picket duty and/or strike activity. A strike is not a vacation; it is a very intensive, goal-oriented job. Pay attention and engaged on social media and any other communications from your team or UFCW 3000. Do not contribute to the rumor mill. Stay in contact with your colleagues. Help each other out in any way you are able. Discuss issues and continue a productive dialogue.   

HOW MANY WORKERS WILL IT TAKE FOR A STRIKE TO BE EFFECTIVE?   

A large active picket line is vital to a successful strike. Every Tech needs to participate to send a strong message to Providence. The more workers, family, and friends we have out on the line, the harder it is for people to cross it. Being at the picket is also the best way to get the latest information on how the strike is going and to show the community that workers are united in the strike.    

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF CROSSING THE PICKET LINE?   

Crossing a picket line weakens workers’ power to win the change we need in negotiations, whether it be safe staffing, better compensation, or holding the employer accountable to follow labor law. It also erodes the camaraderie in the workplace, could prolong the strike and negatively impacts our efforts to work as a team once the strike is settled.   

WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF MY PATIENTS? WILL IT BE CONSIDERED ABANDONMENT?  

The facility received 10 days’ notice which will allow them to move patients to other facilities and to cease taking elective patients. Any patients remaining will be taken care of by managers and strike breakers (travel/contract workers and bargaining unit Techs who cross the picket line). Patients who would normally come to the facility may have to use other facilities.  

WILL A STRIKE AFFECT THE IMAGE OF TECHS IN A NEGATIVE WAY?  

No. We are professionals. We should demand reasonable management practices, a safe environment for both our patients and us and benefits that reflect our professional status. It is important to conduct ourselves in a professional manner and be informed. UFCW 3000 Techs have the support of the community and Local and State Elected Officials, and Labor organizations.  

HOW LONG WIIL THE STRIKE LAST?   

Our strike will start on Monday April 22 at 2pm and last until Tuesday April 30 at 8:30 pm. 

IF I AM NOT YET A MEMBER OF THE UNION, BUT AM IN THE BARGAINING UNIT, CAN I GO ON STRIKE?   

Yes. All Techs in the bargaining unit are represented by the Union. All employees, even new hires in their probationary period, have the legal right to strike and honor the picket line. Non-members within the bargaining unit have the same protection under the law as members do during a strike.   

WHAT ARE OTHER WORKERS ALLOWED TO DO OPENLY TO SUPPORT WORKERS ON STRIKE?  

All workers have the right to collective concerted union activity such as voicing their support and wearing buttons, stickers, or other visible solidarity. Please check www.ufcw3000.org/strike  for up-to-date information.  

CAN MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY JOIN THE PICKET LINE?   

Yes! Our fight is our friends’, families’, and communities’ fight. However, they will be required to abide by the same rules of conduct expected of all Techs.   Invite your family and friends to join the strike line and an evening solidarity Rally on Wednesday, April 24, at 7pm over in Cowley Park (next to the hospital at 7th & Division St.)

CAN OTHER UFCW 3000 MEMBERS NOT IN NEGOTIATIONS STRIKE? 

No. Members cannot strike while their contract is in effect. This includes other UFCW 3000 members in the Service and Maintenance Unit and at Holy Family. They may join in solidarity at Sacred Heart when they are off work.    

WHERE SHOULD I PARK DURING THE STRIKE?

You may park in public parking areas, street, or residential parking. We encourage everyone to carpool or utilize public transportation. No one should use employee parking during the strike.  

WHAT OPTIONS  WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR RESTROOMS?

In the event you need supplies or need a bio break, there will be restroom access at surrounding businesses and strike headquarters: Hampton Inn Spokane Downtown-South: 675 S. McClellan St., Spokane. Do not enter the Hospital to use the restroom or buy food.

WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I WEAR ON THE STRIKE LINE?

Wear comfortable shoes and weather appropriate clothes or scrubs if possible. Gloves are encouraged for early morning and evening to keep warm. Wear UFCW yellow and blue- and have fun with it!

WHERE DO WE REPORT FOR STRIKE SIGN-IN/OUT?

Upon arrival, sign-in at the Tent on S. McCelellan St. and W 8th Ave. You must sign-in here when you arrive. When your shift is over, sign out at the tent or with a UFCW 3000 staff person on the strike line in order to receive Strike Benefits.

IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO HELP BEFORE WE GO ON STRIKE?   

Yes! Volunteer to be a strike captain and attend the Strike Captain Meeting on Friday April 19 at 6pm at the UFCW 3000 Spokane Office. You can also share the Community Pledge and Rally Information with friends and family- all info centralized at www.ufcw3000.org/strike.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER WE STRIKE? 

We have requested bargaining dates during the 10-day strike notice period. Providence has declined, and up to this point has indicated that they have no intention of changing their minds. Our hope is to return to the table as soon as possible either during or after thestrike and use the power of our ULP strike to reach a contract agreement.  

Strike Hotline: 1-866-210-3000  

To Stay Updated and find additional information on the Community Rally and Rules for the Picket Line: www.ufcw3000.org/strike  

Event: Stand With Sacred Heart Workers on ULP Strike

Our health care workers are standing up for fair treatment and safe patient care at Sacred Heart.

Come by at 7 PM to meet striking workers and prepare for a sunset solidarity rally, with voices from the hospital and our community.

Let’s show Sacred Heart workers that this community has their back!

Providence Sacred Heart Service and Maintenance FAQ about ULP strike

Download and print Service & Maintenance ULP strike FAQ here

As you may know, there is scheduled to be a strike at Sacred Heart next week. This Unfair Labor Practice strike is over the Providence Sacred Heart Technical Unit Collective Bargaining Agreement and Providence committing several unfair labor practices that include making changes in the workplace without first negotiating and skirting the bargaining process by attempting to direct deal and coerce staff. This strike does NOT include the Service and Maintenance agreement. There has been some confusion due to emails Providence Sacred Heart management has sent that did not specify which departments are going on strike. All Technical staff will be out on a ULP strike beginning at 2pm on Monday, April 22, and continuing until 8:30pm on Tuesday, April 30.

There are questions around what Services and Maintenance staff should expect when the strike happens. Here are some common questions we have been asked.

Do I cross the Picket line?

Service and Maintenance employees are required to work their regularly scheduled shifts during the time that the technical staff are on strike per Article 13 of your contract. Service and Maintenance staff should not join the strike line while on lunches or breaks. If you would like to support the strike lines on your own personal non-work time, your fellow UFCW 3000 members in the Technical unit would really appreciate the show of solidarity!

How can we show solidarity while at work?

You should wear UFCW 3000 buttons and solidarity stickers, and blue or yellow scrubs. Get creative and please wear them each day! One of the most important things you can do is to share stories about what is happening in the hospital. Please keep your Union Rep informed on what is happening and if there are any stories that could make strikers feel empowered. Our job during the strike is to show solidarity- both visually and with our actions. If management instructs you to remove your buttons and/or stickers, you should comply with their request but report the incident to your Union Rep.

Can I be asked to do work outside of my normal duties?

One of the most powerful things you can do to affirm your scope of work is question and object to improper assignments that are changes to your normal working conditions. You also have a responsibility to provide good patient care and make sure no person is harmed. If management asks us to do something that you are uncomfortable with, is unsafe, or outside of our normal responsibilities- you have the right to object and state why.

Objections can include any personal reason that you feel strongly about- including your licensure, patient safety, insufficient training, or that it’s not in your job description. You have the right to push back and encourage managers and replacement workers to do the additional tasks asked of you. However, you only refuse a task if it is an abnormally dangerous assignment.

You have the right to object- but if you refuse it may be considered insubordination. Your job is to object on why an assignment is improper, and if management insists on you doing the work, you should comply, document the scenario, and call our Union Rep if you have questions. If you feel unequipped or unsafe for any reason, report it to your Union Rep as well.

Scheduling, Overtime, Low Census, and all other provisions of our contracts remain in effect and should be adhered to. Please refer to your Union contract: ufcw3000.org/contracts

Do I have to come in on my days off and work extra shifts/hours?

No, after the schedule is posted, changes to the schedule can only be made with mutual consent. Out of support for your fellow UFCW 3000 members we ask that you consider not picking up any extra shifts.

7.8 Schedule Posting. Work schedules of shifts and days off (including call schedules) for a six (6) week period will be posted three (3) weeks in advance. After posting, the schedule may only be changed by mutual consent.

Can I be forced to take PTO or furloughed without pay?

Management may ask for volunteers to take unpaid time off or to use educational time– deciding to do so is up to you. They must continue to follow the Low Census process that is in your contract.

What else can we do to help?

Invite your family and friends to join the Techs on the strike line! Also, If you are not working at the time, you are invited to join Technical staff and community allies at an evening solidarity rally on Wednesday, April 24, at 7pm over in Cowley Park (next to the hospital at 7th & Division St.)

If you have any questions or concerns on the Service and Maintenance contract, please contact Union Representative Lenaya Wilhelm, 360-409-0556.

Find all the latest Union updates in one place: UFCW3000.org/strike >>

Providence Sacred Heart Tech ULP Strike Notice Delivered: We Stand United

ULP Strike Notice Delivered at Sacred Heart: We Stand United 

After months of bargaining with Providence Sacred Heart in Spokane, Sacred Heart Medical Center technical workers voted overwhelmingly to REJECT Providence’s most recent contract offer and YES to authorize an unfair labor practice strike, with unprecedented voter turnout. 

“A supermajority of UFCW 3000 members showed up to vote. As an extension of our voices, we used our votes to reject the present contract offered by Providence and to authorize a strike, signaling it is time for Providence to hear us and find solutions to combat short staffing and retain experienced staff. We are a part of this community, and we will continue to fight to keep our community safe and healthy.” – Providence Sacred Heart Technical Unit Bargaining Team: Derek Roybal, Janelle Mathias, Craig Kistler, Lee Lidman, Joe Sikkila, Shane Sullivan, Miriam Critelli, Teresa Bowden, Angela Holmes, Holly Granly.

Today we delivered to a 10-day strike notice to Providence. Our union bargaining team has called for an Unfair Labor Practice Strike starting at 2:00pm on April 22 and lasting until April 30, with picketing outside the hospital every day between the hours of 5:30am - 8:30pm.

WE STRIKE BECAUSE:

We deserve better. Providence’s behavior at the bargaining table has shown us consistent disrespect. That disrespect of our rights and our bargaining process has extended to management committing unfair labor practices. Providence management implemented a change in working conditions, imposing schedule changes outside the bounds of our contract even as our union objected. They engaged in blatant direct dealing with union members outside of negotiations, skirting the bargaining process by attempting to coerce members into approving terms we had not agreed to. At the final hour they punitively revoked our access to the hospital for our contract vote the day before the vote. From the beginning, we had to fight just to keep our existing medical and dental guarantees on the table, which we only saved through relentless action and solidarity. Management’s insistence that we compare our compensation with a nearby hospital vanished when those workers negotiated significant improvements. Now Providence seems perfectly comfortable making many of us the lowest-paid workers in our field in our region, all while committing unfair labor practices throughout our negotiations. They even made the decision to take away snacks and drinks from employees utilizing the OR break room.

Our patients deserve better. Chronic short-staffing and perpetual on-call is running us ragged. Sacred Heart Medical Center is the only hospital of its kind in the region, yet instead of recognizing the unique specialty, skills, and services we provide, hospital leadership seems convinced they don’t have to invest in staff. We are a lifeline for the sickest patients in the Inland Northwest, and without a better contract we will continue to lose the technical staff required to offer the highest level of care. Our patients deserve the best care team possible, and we can’t achieve that if technical staff can work down the street for better pay, fairer treatment, a higher level of respect, and less demanding work. 

Our community is counting on us. If we allow Providence management to degrade the standards in our contract, to ignore our hard work and sacrifices, to set the bar as low as possible for how skilled technical workers are treated, we know it will have devastating impacts on our ability to retain our experienced staff and recruit new highly qualified technical staff. As our region’s only level II trauma center for adult and pediatric patients, Providence should be the regional leader in recruiting and retaining skilled staff. 

We stand united. Our unit has shown up to these votes in lockstep, with unprecedented turnout and unanimous or near-unanimous votes rejecting Providence’s offers and authorizing this unfair labor practice strike. We have come this far together. Walking a strike line is a last resort, and we don’t take it lightly, but we are ready to stand up for our patients, our community, and each other. Unfair labor practices are unacceptable, and the disrespect we’re facing at the bargaining table negatively impacts patient care. We have the support of 50,000 fellow UFCW 3000 members and our union’s community allies across Spokane.

We are inspired by our fellow Providence workers, including the 1,300+ nurses at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett who went on strike in 2023 and demanded better for their patients and staff. Following their lead, we call on all Providence workers to keep organizing together in solidarity, in this contract fight and in your upcoming contract negotiations. Each time that we stand up to Providence’s corporate greed, we lay a foundation to envision what a more powerful voice could look like for workers and patients in our health care system and specifically within Providence Health & Services.

PROVIDENCE SACRED HEART STRIKE – TAKE ACTION: 

It’s time to send Providence a clear message that they need to do better, we expect better, and our patients deserve better. Join us in actions over the coming days and on the strike line starting on April 22 to ask Providence to be the leader our community and patients need. 

BEFORE WE STRIKE: 

• Fill out your W9 to receive ULP strike benefits >> 
  All represented workers who picket over 20 hours a week will receive $500, or $800 if you picket for over 32 hours. If you are unable to join the picket but respect the strike line and stay home, you can receive $200 Respect the Line pay.

• Sign up for your strike shifts! >>

• Share the Community Pledge to support the ULP strike with your friends, family and community >>

CALENDAR: Join actions next week to help prepare for a successful strike! 

Monday 4/15 @ 7pm: Media and Social Media Training via Zoom 
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82384326981?pwd=SnpRTW5Ub1AzeS9OeGlPK2twaExQZz09  

Tuesday 4/16 @ 6pm: Picket Sign-Making Party
@ UFCW 3000 Office: 2805 N Market St, Spokane, WA 99207. Come make a sign and also pick up community support signs to share with local businesses.  

Wednesday 4/17 @ 11am: Press Conference
@ UFCW 3000 Office: 2805 N Market St, Spokane, WA 99207. Invite family and friends to join us! 

Wednesday 4/17 @ 7pm: Telephone Town Hall call with Providence workers statewide 
Providence Sacred Heart workers will receive a call at the phone number on file with the union inviting you to join this call at 7 pm. If you miss the call or do not receive a call, you can join the meeting anytime by calling (888) 652-0386 and entering Meeting ID 7911  

Friday 4/19 @ 6pm: Strike Captain Meeting
@ UFCW 3000 Office: 2805 N Market St, Spokane, WA 99207. Are you interested in helping to be a leader on the line? Come join us for training on roles, how to lead, and what to expect.

Monday 4/22 @ 2pm: UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE STRIKE BEGINS
Picketing at the hospital will occur daily from 5:30am – 8:30pm through 4/30. 

*Additional communications will be sent out answering frequently asked questions, as we prepare logistically for the Strike. Stay up to date at www.ufcw3000.org/strike. 

Providence Sacred Heart PROV MISSED THE MARK AGAIN Contract and Strike Reauthorization vote

After months of bargaining with Providence to secure a new contract that reflects the respect we deserve and the care our patients need, we were met with another disappointing proposal from the Hospital. A Proposal that Providence said was them putting their best offer forward. A proposal that would make many of us the lowest paid workers in our field in the region. A Proposal that doesn't adequately address safe staffing by improving our retention and recruitment of healthcare workers.

We are the lifeline for Spokane and the greater Inland Northwest community. Providence Sacred Heart is the only trauma 2 and pediatric hospital in Washington State and has the only stroke thrombectomy center, nuerointerventional center, adult congenital heart program, and transplant center in the Inland Northwest.

Providence should be the leader in recruitment and retention in Spokane and should recognize the unique specialty, skills, and services we provide to the community.

From the very first moment of bargaining, Providence has been laser focused on deteriorating standards in our contract by attempting to bully our unit to give up our Union Healthcare benefits and committing multiple potential Unfair Labor Practices along the way. We stood together and were successfully able to protect our Dental benefits through the life of the agreement and we are standing  together and fighting  back against Providence breaking labor law.  

Next, the Hospital came to the table with a song and dance about how they wanted to address specific areas in our contract that were behind market, to maintain Sacred Heart Medical Center as the leader in the Spokane area, while at the same time attempting to pin our wages to the lowest comparable in the area. After the same neighboring hospital settled their contact with significant gains, Providence came back to the table arguing that we shouldn’t look at that comparison. It’s clear to us that Providence is prepared to make whatever argument, flip flopping all the way, just to pay us less. We find that unacceptable.

Many of us have worked through the pandemic, worked short staffed for months or years, taken endless hours of call, sacrificing our time, energy, bodies, and our families to care for our patients and community all while making Providence profitable. Our wages and standards have fallen behind others, and we still did our job. Providence’s last proposal does not recognize us for our hard work, skills, and commitment to our community and to Providence.

We still have work to do. Its time to send Providence a clear message that they need to do better, we expect better, and our patients deserve better. Join us at the Contract vote this Thursday to reject Providence’s latest offer and re-authorize a strike.

CONTRACT VOTE AND STRIKE RE-AUTHORIZATION VOTE

Thursday, April 11 from 7am to 8pm
@ Hampton Inn & Suites- Spokane Downtown South, 675 S Mcclellan Street. Spokane, WA 99204 in the Rockwood Retreat Room 3

Please help pass the word- the Vote will be held at a NEW location- the Hampton Inn Downtown Spokane, right across from the Hospital.

Our union Bargaining Team is recommending a NO vote on the contract proposal and a YES vote to re-authorize a strike. Any time there are significant changes to the proposal we must re-vote. All members in good standing are encouraged to vote. To receive the union strike pay benefit, you must complete a W9 form before we go on strike >>

“Our team showed up today and worked very hard to come up with competitive comprehensive proposals that involved very creative movement and was met with a lack of creative ideas from the employer. I continue to feel that my career choice is very unappreciated by this employer. I cannot in good conscience recommend a yes vote on the employers’ latest proposal.” – Angela Holmes Surgical Tech

“Providence needs to do the right thing chose to show that they care about the health of the community and surrounding areas and take action to recruit and retain the talented and experience caregivers that have made us the leaders in acute care. Profits and shareholders should never be given priority over patients and employees.” – Derek Roybal

“My perception is that Management had no intention of moving towards a fair contract that would help with retention and recruitment of highly qualified staff to care for our community. Join us in voting NO on the contract and Yes on strike Authorization on Thursday. Providence needs to Do better and Providence need to BE better.” – Joe Sikkila

Providence Sacred Heart Being united gets results, but the fight isn’t over.

If our Bargaining Team is unable to reach a fully recommended offer at our next session on April 8  —then our union Bargaining Team is recommending a NO vote on the contract proposal and a YES vote to re-authorize a strike. 

When we fight we win! Management heard us because of our unanimous strike authorization vote. With the strength and support of our co-workers behind us, we were able to lock in significant movement at the table:  

We beat back management’s attempts to gut our dental plan. 

• Proposals were exchanged that would ensure NO changes to our contractual dental plan over the course of the contract and included language that would ensure we keep our Dental plan in place long term, as long as it remains the standard for the Service & Maintenance unit at the hospital.  

We also locked in new Tentative Agreements on:  

• Recognition of past experience for New Hires 

• Increase Shift Differentials 

• Increased Standby pay 

•  Preceptor Premium 

• Adding MLK Day as a holiday 

• Clarity of sick leave usage 

• Removal of Ghost Step for step 23 and Step 11 

• Improved Grievance process 

• Staffing LOU  

• Tuition reimbursement increase 

While these are promising improvements they are not enough until we win significant improvements on wage proposals. 

Caregivers deserve respect from Management, Sacred Heart is the only level 2 trauma hospital in the area and is a vital resource for our community for miles around. Other hospitals send us their most complicated and desperate patients to get the care they need. 

Throughout the negotiation process Management has tried to circumvent good faith bargaining by unanimously implementing procedures around mealtimes and breaks, imposing a wage path without negotiating, frustrating the process by failing to provide essential information to our union bargaining team, and other unfair labor practices.  

Contract vote scheduled: Thursday, April 11 from 7am to 8pm in the Leahy Room (next to the cafeteria). 

If we are unable to reach a fully recommended offer at our next session scheduled for April 8 our union Bargaining Team is recommending a NO vote on the contract proposal and a YES vote to re-authorize a strike. Any time there are significant changes to the proposal we must re-vote. All members in good standing are encouraged to vote. To receive the union strike pay benefit, you must complete a W9 form before we go on strike >>

“We need to show Management that the progress we made isn’t enough with a strong NO Vote. We hope we can reach a tentative agreement, but we are united and ready for a ULP strike if we must. Over the next week we will be signing up for strike shifts and picket captain trainings. We are not afraid to do what we must to win,” - Craig Kistler 

“We need to recruit and retain talented caregivers so that we can provide the quality healthcare this community expects from a Trauma level 2 Hospital. Spokane has become one of the most expensive places to live in Eastern Washington, we need wages that stay competitive with other area healthcare centers and acknowledge the unique and important role that Sacred Heart plays in caring for communities for miles around.” - Teresa Bowden

Next steps:

1. Addend the contract vote/strike re-authorization vote on Thursday, April 11 from 7am to 8pm in the Leahy Room (next to the cafeteria.

1.  Strike shift sign-ups will be available next week 

1. To receive strike pay you must complete and return a W-9 >> 

Providence Sacred Heart (Technical) - CONTRACT REJECTED, STRIKE AUTHORIZED

Providence Sacred Heart - Technical
CONTRACT REJECTED, STRIKE AUTHORIZED

On March 1, Providence Sacred Heart Technical UFCW 3000 union members voted unanimously to reject the Employer’s last contract proposal and authorize a ULP strike.

After many long bargaining sessions with Providence Sacred Heart, the Bargaining Team felt that it was time to take a stand and let Management know that we are all standing together for a fair contract that has no takeaways to our benefits and addresses the sub-par wage scale that prevents us from recruiting and retaining quality staff and gives us the ability to provide adequate patient care to our community.

A Federal Mediator will be joining our next bargaining session on March 18, and we are hoping that we can get Providence to acknowledge the importance of recognizing that we are the HEART at Sacred Heart.

It is an unfair labor practice for Management to coerce members, to interfere in Union activities or change any working conditions. Please continue to advise our Bargaining Team or Union Rep if you believe your Manager has engaged in any type of this behavior.

A vote to authorize a strike is a collective stand for our rights and the well-being of our coworkers and communities. The prospect of a strike may be a last resort, but it is a powerful tool that can motivate change. It forces the Employer to reconsider their stance at the bargaining table and acknowledge our hard work and our commitment to our patients. Withholding our labor is one of the ultimate actions we can take to demonstrate our power in the workplace, show the Employer we are UNITED, and achieve our goal of a FAIR CONTRACT when no other methods have worked.

“I voted to strike simply because I feel disrespected by Providence. Costs have risen much faster than pay and the proposed cost-of-living adjustment will not cover half of the monthly increases that I have seen over the past couple of years. I cannot continue to fall behind because Providence will not offer a reasonable increase. Sacred Heart offers services that no one else in the region offers, yet Providence does not seem to care about the skill set needed to provide those services. I have observed several coworkers leave for more money in the same or lower priced areas of the county and have indicated that they have a better work life balance. Providence does not seem to care about these things. Without these adjustments, recruiting to fill vacancies is difficult if not impossible.” —Mark Kehoe, Pediatric Sonographer

Join us at the Spokane St. Patrick’s Day parade!

We will be marching in the Spokane to show our presence and hand out leaflets to members of our community. Bring your family, friends, and wear UFCW yellow.

Saturday, March 16 @ 11am
Flour Mill, 621 W Mallon Ave, Spokane, WA 99201

Please reach out to a Bargaining Team member or Union Rep Juanita Quezada @ 509- 340-7407 if you have questions or would like to get more involved in the fight for a fair contract.

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center Techs CONTRACT & ULP STRIKE VOTE SCHEDULED

After more than 14 hours of negotiations on February 22, we find ourselves not making a lot of movement at the table with Providence. We entered these negotiations with the goal of securing a fair and competitive agreement.

Although Providence made small movement on the dental benefits guarantee elimination, they continue to propose the elimination of guaranteed language for dental that is currently protected by the contract and replacing it with a proposal that will slowly deplete the benefits employees currently have. The Bargaining Team feels that the latest proposal is not only disrespectful but will only further chip away at our benefits package. We will continue to push back at the bargaining table with Federal Mediation on March 18, 2024 against employer proposals like eliminating the guarantee the employer pays 100% of Dental Premium for full-time employees and at least 50% for dependents. We will also continue to push for significant movement on wage increases to help recruit and retain staff, which we believe would improve staffing and patient care.

It is an unfair labor practice for Management to coerce members or to interfere in Union activities. Please advise the bargaining team or Union Representative if you believe your manager has engaged in any type of this behavior.

“Providence Sacred Heart is known for treating high acuity patients and rarely transfer patients, patients usually come to us. We take care of our patients and Providence should do the same and take good care of their staff.” —Joe Sikkila, Respiratory Therapy

Contract Review Meeting: Tuesday, February 27 from 6pm-8pm:

We encourage members to join their bargaining team and co-workers at the UFCW 3000 office for a bargaining update meeting on February 27 from 6p-8p to get updates and learn about next steps.

Contract and ULP Strike Authorization vote: Friday, March 1

We will be holding a Strike Authorization Vote and a Contract Vote on Friday, March 1, 2024 from 8am-11am, 1pm-4pm, and 5pm-8pm at the UFCW 3000 office: 2805 N. Market Street, Spokane WA. Our Bargaining Team recommends a “NO” vote on Providence’s last proposal and a “YES” vote to authorize a strike. You must be a member in good standing to vote. The Bargaining Team will be on-hand to answer any question you may have. All changes to the contract, including the last employer package proposal will be available at the vote.

“We had a long intense bargaining on 2/22. We did our job and kept pushing thinking we would be able to meet in the middle to get a deal.” -Holly Granly Surgical Tech

“The lack of ability to retain/recruit skilled staff continues to degrade patient safety, patient health, and staff safety.” -Derek Roybal CV Tech

Providence Sacred Heart Technical Bargaining Update

We met with the Employer again on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 and although the Employer moved off of the Medical benefits guarantee elimination, they continue to propose the elimination of guaranteed language for dental that is currently protected by the contract. The Employer stated that they want us to have the same benefits as non-represented employees, and not the same benefits as other represented employees such as your RNs and Service & Maintenance co-workers. The bargaining team feels there was minimal movement made and we have a long way to go. We will continue to push back at bargaining table on February 22, 2024 against Employer proposals like eliminating language in Article 13.6, that guarantees the employer pays 100% of Dental Premium for Full-Time employees and at least 50% for dependents. We will also continue to push for significant movement on wage increases to help recruit and retain staff, which we believe would improve staffing and patient care.

We have had reports of Management bringing around a bargaining update that shows what the Employer’s last proposal was. We have been told that it is not posted and only being shown by Management.

WHY? We believe that what they are showing employees is only a partial proposal that does not show the proposal to eliminate language in Article 13.6.

It is an unfair labor practice for Management to coerce members or to interfere in Union activities. Please advise your bargaining team or Union Representative if you believe your manager has engaged in any type of this behavior.

If you have not already done so please join your coworkers in signing the strike pledge

We encourage members to join their bargaining team and co-workers at the UFCW 3000 office for a bargaining update meeting to get updates and hear about next steps on February 27. We will also be holding a Strike Authorization Vote on March 1, 2024:

Bargaining Update Meeting

February 27

• 6pm - 8pm

Strike Authorization Vote

March 1, 2024

• 8am - 11am
• 1pm - 4pm
• 5pm - 8pm

UFCW 3000 office

2805 N. Market Street, Spokane, WA

As a member of your bargaining team, we are working very hard to bring our co-workers a contract we feel is fair and protects our benefits.

—Angela Holmes, Surgical Tech

We should not only be compared to local hospitals but also to Hospitals of similar size and services. We need to have competitive wages that reflect the work we do.

—Lee Lidman, IR CV Tech

Better wages lead to better staffing, which leads to better patient care. We have been working additional shifts for over 2 years. If the employer put that additional incentive pay into the wage scale, we would be able to recruit and retain experienced staff.

—Joe Sikkila, Respiratory Therapy

Time for ACTION at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center

The bargaining team met with the employer on January 30 for a very long bargaining session. We began the session with some testimonies from the team to try and help management understand the reason for our complete comprehensive proposals. Providence seemed to have listened and made some movement. The employer did finally withdraw their proposal of the elimination of the medical benefit guarantees protected by our contract but maintained their proposal to eliminate the Dental and Vision Guarantees that are in our current contract. The bargaining team is working on a counter to the employer's package proposal (all or nothing proposal) and will be ready to present it at our next session on February 6, 2024.

Come to the Contract Action Team meeting on February 8, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Spokane office, 2805 N. Market St., Spokane WA, to get exact information on what is happening at the bargaining table and be part of planning what happens next.

The bargaining team launched a button up action on January 30. If you don’t have your button, please reach out to our bargaining team and make sure you wear the button daily. Let’s show Providence our readiness to take action if we fail to reach an agreement and that we are united for a fair contract.

We started a pledge to strike petition on January 10 and are over majority. If you haven’t already, please submit your strike pledge today.

>>> Sign the Strike Pledge

Contact our bargaining team or your representative Juanita Quezada at (509) 340-7407 if you have any questions.

Our Bargaining Team: Joseph Sikkila, Respiratory Therapist; Craig Kistler, MHC; Derek Roybal, CV Tech; Lee Lidman, IR Tech; Janelle Mathias, Pharmacy Technician; Miriam Critelli, Pharmacy Technician; Shane Sullivan, Peds Echo; Teresa Bowden, Respiratory Therapist; Holly Granly, Surgical Technologist; Angela Holmes, Surgical Technologist;

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center Techs Back to bargaining

“On January 9 our Bargaining Team went back to the bargaining table with Management. While we are encouraged by the movement that Management finally made in many areas for the first time we still have a lot of work to do.” — Janelle Mathias Pharmacy Tech. Bargaining Team member and Steward.

We will be back to the table with Management on January 17 to continue conversations on Compensation, Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, Credit for experience and a few other outstanding items.

Please reach out to the Bargaining Team or our Union Representative Juanita Quezada 509-340-7371 with any questions or concerns.

We don’t want to but we will.

We are standing strong for each other, our patients, and our communities: Sign the pledge to join my Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center Tech co-workers on the strike line >>

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center - Bargaining continues

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
Bargaining continues

“The Employer actually asked the Bargaining Team to TRUST them when they proposed to eliminate our guaranteed coverage of Health, Vision and Dental insurance. Would you trust Providence?” —Derek Roybal, CV Tech and Bargaining Team member

Our Bargaining Team met with Management on December 18 and had a long discussion about attendance, benefits, and compensation.

While we were able to make significant progress on many issues, the Employer also sent a clear message they want to come after some of the core pillars of our Union contract. This included Management proposal to add language that limits our ability to grieve or arbitrate in many areas of our contract and troublesome language that removes mush of our contractual protections on benefit plans as the wish for us to receive the same as non-represented Employees. We believe in the Union difference and Providence’s proposals clearly show they are attempting to weaken our bargaining unit.

Making matters worse, Management sent conflicting and possibly deceptive information which created the need to take a break and cut bargaining short on December 19.

We will meet again with Providence on January 9, and hope they come to the table ready to work together to address retention and recruitment issues, affordable benefit options, and fair compensation.

Our Bargaining Team is committed to protecting the rights and benefits in our contract. Please contact any of your Bargaining Team members or your Union Rep Juanita Quezada with any questions or concerns.

Join us at our next bargaining update meeting!
Thursday, January 4
6pm — 8pm
UFCW 3000 office, 2805 N. Market St. Spokane WA

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center (Technical) - Bargaining Begins

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center (Technical)
Bargaining Begins

Our Bargaining Team met with Providence Administration on November 9 and November 10.

On the first day, our union Bargaining Team was able to get all proposals, including economics, to the Employer and the Employer responded on the second day. We have tentative agreements on expanding the grievance timeline to 21 days in step one, transferring onto an online staffing form and cleaning up language in areas that we no longer use. Unfortunately, the parties are very far apart in terms of compensation, and the Employer has proposed significant changes to Medical, Dental, Credit for experience, attendance and some other articles that we consider takeaways.

Our next bargaining dates are December 18 and December 19. In the meantime, our Bargaining Team will be meeting to discuss further steps and actions going forward. There is no time better than the present to get organized so that our voices are heard.

“It is my first time on the Bargaining Team, and I am very happy to be part of the process and to represent my co-workers during this very difficult time. Hopefully, each bargaining session gets better. Right now, it looks like we will have to STAND STRONG TOGETHER MORE THAN EVER.” —Lee Lidman, IR Tech and Bargaining Team

Providence Sacred Heart Technical Workers in Spokane Support Providence Regional RNs on ULP Strike!

Our Providence Sacred Heart Bargaining Team: (Top L—R) Joseph Sikkila, Respiratory Therapist; Craig Kistler, MHC; Derek Roybal, CV Tech; Lee Lidman, IR Tech; Janelle Mathias, Pharmacy Technician; Shane Sullivan Peds Echo; Teresa Bowden, Respiratory Therapist; (Bottom L—R) Holly Granly, Surgical Technologist; Angela Holmes, Surgical Technologist; Juanita Quezada, Union Rep; (Not pictured) Miriam Critelli, Pharmacy Technician

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to a Bargaining Team member or Union Rep Juanita Quezada @ 509-340-7371.