Northwestern Medical Center Nurses Vote to Unionize
In a landmark decision on June 21, 2021, the dedicated registered nurses of Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans made history by voting in favor of unionizing after months of tireless organizing efforts. This pivotal moment marked a significant step forward for the 150 nurses at this small regional hospital, as they cast their votes in a resounding 72-45 majority to formalize their union. The hospital’s president, Peter Wright, promptly expressed the institution’s commitment to recognizing and respecting the outcome of this momentous election.
Emily Millman, a compassionate nurse at the hospital and a key member of the union’s organizing committee, shared that this recent vote signified the nurses’ second attempt in recent years to establish a union. A previous effort in 201 ended when the hospital administration extended an offer for nurses to have more input into decision-making through a shared governance model. Despite this temporary resolution, many nurses, including Millman, realized the pressing need for greater involvement in shaping critical decisions within the hospital setting.
Reflecting on the deep connection that nurses have with their local community, Millman emphasized, “Most of us not only work here, but also we live here. Our families live here, our friends live here.” She vividly painted a picture of the intimate bonds that nurses share with their patients, often caring for each other’s loved ones, neighbors, and friends. This personal connection underscores the profound commitment these nurses have to ensuring that their hospital remains a beacon of compassionate care for all.
One of the primary concerns that fueled the formation of this new union is the issue of staff safety. Millman recounted her firsthand experiences witnessing a troubling increase in physical violence against staff members in the emergency department. To address this pressing challenge, she revealed that the union is exploring measures such as advocating for additional support staff and improved nurse-to-patient ratios. These critical changes, she asserted, would not only enhance the quality of care but also foster a safer working environment for all healthcare professionals.
While monetary compensation was not the primary catalyst for unionization, Millman stressed the importance of creating a more equitable system for nurses to advance in their careers. She highlighted the need for a transparent pathway for pay raises and market adjustments to ensure that nurses feel valued and supported in their professional growth.
Looking ahead, the newly formed union is gearing up for the next phase in their journey: bargaining a first contract. Millman underscored the urgency of reaching a swift agreement, emphasizing how a harmonious resolution would benefit both staff members and the hospital at large. By streamlining this negotiation process, the union aims to cultivate a more positive and cohesive work environment that fosters staff retention and overall satisfaction.
In response to these groundbreaking developments, Wright reiterated the hospital administration’s commitment to forging a bright future centered on the shared mission of delivering exceptional care to the community. The newly formed union is set to join AFT Vermont, a reputable affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers that represents a diverse array of healthcare and higher education workers statewide. This strategic alliance will provide the nurses with a powerful platform to amplify their voices and advocate for meaningful change within their workplace.
Nicole DiVita, president for health care at AFT Vermont, expressed her elation at the nurses’ decision to unionize, emphasizing the newfound empowerment and collective voice that this unionization effort brings to the forefront. Millman echoed this sentiment of excitement and optimism, underscoring the profound impact that nurses can have in shaping a better, more compassionate world through their advocacy and dedication to patient care.
As nurses across Northwestern Medical Center embark on this transformative journey of unionization, they stand united in their shared commitment to championing the well-being of their patients, colleagues, and community. This historic moment serves as a testament to the resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication of these healthcare heroes as they pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future in healthcare.
