We spent 14 hours at the table yesterday and we’re back again today. We are in mediation, which means that both sides have agreed to keep the specifics of proposals confidential. (While we can’t go into detail about proposals and counters here, observers are always welcome.) To every nurse who showed up and packed the HEC—thank you. Your presence sent a clear message: we are united, we are serious, and we will not back down in our fight for a fair contract.

We met jointly with management and told them exactly why nurses voted down the tentative agreement. We made it clear:

• Nurses at St. Joe’s deserve wages that reflect our value and match what PeaceHealth pays elsewhere.
• We deserve health insurance that actually works—coverage that includes Tier 1 providers and pharmacy services right here in Whatcom County. Anything less is unacceptable.
• Hospice nurses are as much a part of this Union as any of us.

 Due to the conditions of mediation, we can’t share specifics, but we made serious and effective proposals on wages, experience, health insurance, and issues facing hospice nurses. We put our priorities front and center. Management responded with disrespect.

 They’re not hearing us. But that means we just need to get louder.

We are back at the table today, and we need you with us. Come to HEC Conference Room A, wear your WSNA blue, and help us pack the room. Show management we stand united.

They know we’re ready to walk—and we mean it. While we fight at the table, plan to join an informational picket on April 29 that Bellingham won’t forget.

We’re done asking nicely. We’re here to win a contract that respects our work, protects our patients, and honors our community.

We’re ready to fight. Join us.

In solidarity,
Laura Bayes, Robin Cully, Jenn Engelhart, Rhonda Tull, Tracy Pullar, Amber Pouley, Jen Hampton, Kristin Malmo, Errin Hull, Kelly Carroll, and Jessica Moran

Questions about the picket, negotiations, or anything else? Message your nurse rep Jared at JRichardson@WSNA.org.