Teamsters Leaders Stand in Solidarity with Striking Nurses at Henry Ford Genesys
On October 23, 2025, the Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien and General Secretary-Treasurer Fred Zuckerman visited the picket line of striking nurses and case workers at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital. This gathering marks a significant moment in labor activism, as around 750 dedicated professionals have been on strike since September 1. The walkout is the result of the hospital's refusal to engage in good faith negotiations for a just collective bargaining agreement.
Sean O'Brien condemned the hospital's actions, stating, "Henry Ford Genesys has hit a new low by forcing 750 Teamsters out on strike. These nurses and case workers are asking for nothing more than respect and common-sense protections that put patient safety at the forefront." He emphasized the unjust nature of punishing healthcare workers to improve profits while neglecting public service and community support, asserting that the Teamsters would remain united until their demands were met.
Represented by Teamsters Local 332, the striking workers are advocating for safer nurse-to-patient ratios, improved working conditions, and competitive compensation for their essential caregiving roles. Dan Glass, President of Local 332, expressed his frustrations with the management's apparent focus on undermining the union instead of negotiating fairly. "It's disappointing that Henry Ford Genesys continues to spend their money and energy on union busting and replacement nurses instead of simply offering their own workers a fair agreement," Glass commented, stating that the management's tactics had resulted in an increasingly determined workforce on the picket line.
The hospital, which reported an operating income of $294.2 million in 2024, up from $80.5 million in 2023, raises questions about its priorities. Nurses like Carolyn Clemons have clearly stated that a commitment to safe staffing ratios is essential for patient protection. "I am deeply frustrated that Henry Ford Genesys has been taking so long to address our concerns at the bargaining table," Clemons said, reinforcing the labor movement's stance on safety and care in the hospital environment.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, is a robust labor organization representing 1.3 million members across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. They advocate for workers' rights in various sectors, including healthcare, and continue to support their members in their search for equitable conditions. The situation at Henry Ford Genesys serves as a crucial example of the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices in healthcare, where caregivers demand proper recognition, respect, and safer working environments.
As these events unfold, the solidarity shown by Teamsters leaders reinforces the importance of collective bargaining and workers' rights in shaping their working landscape. The commitment of the nurses and their supporters underscores the belief that fair treatment is not just demanded; it is necessary for the quality of care received by patients. Amidst this backdrop of struggle, the nurses maintain their stance on the picket line, firm in their demand for a better workplace that reflects their hard work and dedication to patient safety.
Sean O'Brien condemned the hospital's actions, stating, "Henry Ford Genesys has hit a new low by forcing 750 Teamsters out on strike. These nurses and case workers are asking for nothing more than respect and common-sense protections that put patient safety at the forefront." He emphasized the unjust nature of punishing healthcare workers to improve profits while neglecting public service and community support, asserting that the Teamsters would remain united until their demands were met.
Represented by Teamsters Local 332, the striking workers are advocating for safer nurse-to-patient ratios, improved working conditions, and competitive compensation for their essential caregiving roles. Dan Glass, President of Local 332, expressed his frustrations with the management's apparent focus on undermining the union instead of negotiating fairly. "It's disappointing that Henry Ford Genesys continues to spend their money and energy on union busting and replacement nurses instead of simply offering their own workers a fair agreement," Glass commented, stating that the management's tactics had resulted in an increasingly determined workforce on the picket line.
The hospital, which reported an operating income of $294.2 million in 2024, up from $80.5 million in 2023, raises questions about its priorities. Nurses like Carolyn Clemons have clearly stated that a commitment to safe staffing ratios is essential for patient protection. "I am deeply frustrated that Henry Ford Genesys has been taking so long to address our concerns at the bargaining table," Clemons said, reinforcing the labor movement's stance on safety and care in the hospital environment.
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, founded in 1903, is a robust labor organization representing 1.3 million members across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. They advocate for workers' rights in various sectors, including healthcare, and continue to support their members in their search for equitable conditions. The situation at Henry Ford Genesys serves as a crucial example of the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices in healthcare, where caregivers demand proper recognition, respect, and safer working environments.
As these events unfold, the solidarity shown by Teamsters leaders reinforces the importance of collective bargaining and workers' rights in shaping their working landscape. The commitment of the nurses and their supporters underscores the belief that fair treatment is not just demanded; it is necessary for the quality of care received by patients. Amidst this backdrop of struggle, the nurses maintain their stance on the picket line, firm in their demand for a better workplace that reflects their hard work and dedication to patient safety.
Topics People & Culture）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.