Communications Workers of America Local 1168
1981
The Communications Workers of America identified the need for a unionized workforce for healthcare workers in Western New York in 1981, when a group of registered nurses from Buffalo General Hospital approached CWA to organize.
1983
750 nurses at Buffalo General Hospital went out on strike in 1983 to obtain a fair first contract for the registered nurses.
1987
Workers go out on strike at DeGraff on August 11. Administration refused to allow benefits for part time staff. The DeGraff administration also wanted to fire all non-nursing staff for exercising their right to strike for better wages and benefits, some with more than 20 years seniority. Two protestors were arrested but then released.
2001
April 6, CWA 1168 members at St. Joes go on strike for 21 days. Winning a 5% pay increase, limiting the amount of mandated overtime, discounts on inpatient care at all CHS hospitals and in some cases a waiver on deductibles. Strikers were returned to their regular jobs with no discipline for strike activity and no interruption in seniority.
2007
Pat Sullivan and Dawn Mele, members of the executive board, walk from DeGraff Hospital to Albany, NY to save local hospitals from closing due to the Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century plan. This move saves the closing of St. Joes, DeGraff, Gates, and ECMC leading to a merger of hospitals instead.
2011
4000 members took to the streets to fight for a fair contract. A strike vote was scheduled but due to the power shown by the rally a tentative agreement was reached and the contract ratified.
2013
A strike authorization was voted on and members were willing to go out on strike. This action resulted in a strong and fair contract. The threat of a looming strike led to a contract agreement.
2021
Paint Buffalo Red. CHS workers, members of CWA 1133, go out on strike at Mercy Hospital. Bargaining with 1133, 1168 fights for benefits of it’s members at St. Joe’s. Healthcare workers at Kaleida facilities stand in support.
