Strike 2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8HSsxzBahY&list=PLrVc3mWU1IO8T7XHNC1gw4g7QViqD3hH-&index=19

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TScYQnD_6QA&list=PLrVc3mWU1IO8T7XHNC1gw4g7QViqD3hH-&index=17

After 9 month of unsuccessful bargaining CWA took a strike vote. With an overwhelming 97% yes, a strike was to begin. So, on October 1, 2021, members of CWA 1133 Mercy Hospital, MACC and MCCC walked out of the hospital at 6am. Together, we stood shoulder to shoulder, entering into our first strike at CHS. As members, we took a stand for our patients, their safety, and improvement of working conditions. Fellow unions, our communities, statewide and local politicians all came to walk and talk words of encouragement. We watched as the hired replacement workers walked through our doors, monitored our halls, doing our jobs, and treating our patients. Buffalo police had a constant presence along with Orchard Park police making frequent stops at the MACC. The bargaining team worked hard while members walked the picket lines starting at 5am - 11pm.  We stood behind the private security and fences, still believing in our mission and doing it together, through the good days when the sun was shining, to the rainstorms where we ran out of ponchos. Tensions were high and it was a time that CHS and CWA will not forget. 

Successfully, CWA members stayed out until they received a historic contract. One that outlined safe staffing ratios, contractual supply requirements like PPE, a competitive economic package, a saved pension, and affordable healthcare. Almost 2,000 workers were out on strike for 40 days.