Last week our members traveled down to the Capitol to rally for healthcare workers and demand that lawmakers hear our voices! Member Kawana Gant led the program, and our workers spoke passionately about the need for safe staffing legislation, support for safety net hospitals, and the addition of a trauma center at Mt. Sinai Hospital. 

Tamara Phillips-Cathey, an RN from Roseland Community Hospital, spoke about the impact of safety net hospitals and the frustration of not having enough support: “A hospital is a basic necessity, but it feels like we have to fight for it every day.”

VA worker Jessica Mendoza warned about the impact short staffing has on her patients: “Even with all of our effort and strength, we cannot be in two places at once. Without enough workers on the floor, our patients’ care suffers… with the current levels of staffing, we can’t provide the care we want to – the care our veterans need and deserve.” 

In addition to our members, SEIU HCII Executive VP Erica Bland and allies including State Sen. Lakesia Collins, State Rep. Kam Buckner, and Teamsters members spoke about the importance of safe staffing and community safety nets. 

Our members are fighting hard to make our lawmakers listen, and it’s working. Join us in our fight to protect healthcare workers and our patients by joining us in one of our upcoming actions!