Q: When is the strike?

We will be going on strike from Monday, May 9 at 5am through Friday, May 13 at 7pm

Q: If I am working the night before the strike can I leave?

Yes, SEIU-UHW has given the Hospital a 10-day advance notice that all SEIU-UHW members will be on strike with a start and end time. It is the hospital’s responsibility to staff accordingly on the day of our strike. You have every right to walk off the job when our strike commences. However, if you’re caring for a patient, we recommend you leave after you finish your shift. It is illegal for the hospital to prevent you from leaving. Don’t forget to punch out and join the picket line.

Q: Do I need to picket on the strike day?

Yes, we need all SEIU-UHW members on the picket line. This is particularly important at shift changes and at times when we are holding a press conference or rally of solidarity.

Q: Do I need to tell my supervisor I will not be reporting to work on the strike day? Should I call out?

No, SEIU-UHW has given that notification 10 days in advance. You do not need to call out. Your supervisor may ask you if you are going on strike. Your bargaining team recommends a YES answer.

Q: Can I strike if I am on probation?

Yes, probationary employees have the same right as everyone else to strike.

Q: Can I be disciplined for participating in our strike?

No. A strike is a protected concerted activity, and it is illegal for an employer to even threaten an employee with discipline. Please report any abuse by management immediately to a bargaining team member or SEIU-UHW representative

Q: Can non-union members join our picket line?

Yes, other hospital workers can lend support (including RNs and doctors). on their own time (before work, during breaks and after work).

Q: Will we be paid for joining the strike?

Union leadership will be authorizing use of our strike fund. Members who picket the equivalent hours of their work shift each day during the strike will receive a $400 stipend at the end of the strike.

Q: Why is this an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike?

A ULP strike is a strike over the illegal actions management has taken while in negotiations or away from the bargaining table, such as if management bargains in bad faith or makes unilateral changes to working conditions. Striking over ULPs gives us added legal protection so that we cannot be permanently replaced. We are preparing to file Unfair Labor Practice charges against the hospitals with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Q: Will there be food on the strike line?

Yes, SEIU-UHW will provide water, sodas, lunch and snacks.

Q: Can I bring my kids to the picket line?

Yes! It will be a peaceful picket line and we will have fun times for kids and other family members to join us.

Q: What if I signed an intent to cross the strike form?

It doesn't matter. That form is not legally binding. Management is legally forbidden from disciplining you for joining the strike line. The bargaining team and the union are aware that management used deceptive information to get members to sign their form.