F I R S T B A R G A I N I N G T E A M T R A I N I N G
The first training for the bargaining teams from CWA 1168, SEIU 1199, IUOE 17, was held on December 15th, 2021. Union representatives went over ground rules and proper negotiation protocols. Survey results inclusive of individual comments were also carefully reviewed and discussed. It was agreed by the committee, that presenting to management as a unified team with ONE voice is paramount for successful negotiations. The bargaining committee’s first caucus will be held on January 12th, 2022.
J A N U A R Y 1 2 T H , 2 0 2 2 – R E D T – S H I R T D A Y
In support of our unified fight toward a fair and equitable contract, we ask that our members wear their red t-shirts on January 12th, 2022! This is the first day of contract caucus for the Unions. Wearing your RED shows our solidarity; for a fair contract, for better working conditions, and SAFE STAFFING! These overdue changes will enable us to give our patients the care that they deserve while providing our members with safe working conditions.
M A R I A N O ‘ S M R I M A D N E S S H A S B E E N M U Z Z L E D
Recently, distraught members of Buffalo General’s MRI department alerted Union leadership to the inappropriate and unethical use of imaging equipment to scan a research dog while patients continued to wait. These canines were part of a neurological research program that involves inducing a stroke like state and eventual euthanasia. At the time of scan, staff reported there were still numerous patients waiting for a MRI. The unethical trumping of patient care by research was brought to the hospital ethics oversight committee by Union Area Vice Presidents. The ethics committee investigated the situation and the practice was halted. Our patients will not wait, and our canine friends will not be subjected to this inhumane treatment.
I N T H E C O M M U N I T Y
On December 9th, the Starbucks in the Elmwood Village voted to unionize! Since then more locations in Buffalo, Boston, Arizona, Seattle and Tennessee have petitioned to unionize. The three additional Buffalo locations include: Depew, Sheridan and Bailey, and Walden and Anderson. Stop by one of these locations to show your support while ordering with “Union Yes” in front of your name!
