SEIU UHW members at Alameda Hospital near Oakland today ratified a new three-year contract. The new agreement is retroactive to April 2008 and covers nearly 130 workers. It contains across-the-board wage increases of 18 percent. It won overwhelming approval by more than 80 percent of members voting.
Having fended off attempts to divide their unit, workers called their victory the direct result of focus and unity.
"This drive at Alameda Hospital was truly a demonstration of member-driven negotiation," said Rex Dizon (below), a surgical porter and steward and bargaining team member at Alameda. "We stayed committed and united against all distractions."
"Our membership is amazing," Dizon added. "Our unity and support for the bargaining team made all the difference. Our victory is an example of what all UHW members can continue to win by coming together and focusing on what's really important for our members and our families."