'Just a start': UnityPoint nurses try to unionize 1,550 coworkers over pay, work conditions

[Omaha Steve]

Michaela Ramm
Kevin Baskins
Des Moines Register and Published 1:02 p.m. CT Nov. 26, 2024Updated 5:56 p.m. CT Nov. 26, 2024

More than 50 nurses turned out in chilly conditions Tuesday afternoon to show their support for unionizing Unity Point Health nurses in Des Moines.

"As nurses, we are told we are the backbone of this institution. However, we are given little to no power to impact decisions and policy changes that impact our ability to safely care for our patients, steer the health of our workplace and affect our own personal livelihood," said Cassie Freml, a registered nurse with Unity Point at Tuesday's rally.

The nurses say they intend to form a union over their concerns about compensation, working conditions and patient care through Teamsters Local 90.

If successful, union organizers say the union would represent 1,550 nurses in Des Moines. With more than 600 signatures already in hand despite the campaign having just started, RN Carly Olney said she was hopeful the nurses would be able to vote on unionizing "within a month or two."

FULL feature story at links.

Here is the archived link: http://archive.today/z4onv

Original link: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/health/2024/11/26/unitypoint-health-nurses-in-des-moines-plan-to-form-a-union-over-wages/76568927007/

[JMCKUSICK]

1. The more success at unionizing "small groups"

The more it's going to happen. Let's cheer this beginning snowball on!

[AllyCat]

2. Yes! These are my brothers and sisters working

In IA without representation. Your coworkers in WI stand with you!! We start bargaining this month. We all must stand strong together!