#United States #West Des Moines #UnityPoint Health #Teamsters Local 90 #Iowa Nurses

UnityPoint Nurses Fight for Unionization

On September 24, 2025, a significant demonstration is set to take place outside the corporate office of UnityPoint Health in West Des Moines, Iowa. This rally is expected to draw attention to the nurses' ongoing struggle to unionize with the Teamsters Local 90. The event reflects a growing community outrage regarding the strenuous opposition posed by UnityPoint executives, particularly CEO Scott Kizer and Nursing Director Sarah Brown, who have been accused of orchestrating an aggressive anti-union campaign.

Background of the Unionization Efforts

The unionization campaign, which has been brewing among UnityPoint nurses, aims to create a fairer workplace environment that emphasizes safe patient care and enhanced nurse working conditions. Instead of fostering this necessary improvement, UnityPoint Health has reportedly invested between $3.7 million and $6.1 million to thwart these unionization efforts, diverting funds that could be better utilized for patient care. The upcoming vote, scheduled from October 5 to October 7, is pivotal as it could determine whether the nurses successfully unionize under Teamsters Local 90.

Community Support Grows

The demonstration will bring together a coalition of nurses, elected officials, and local community members who support the nurses' rights and their quest for fair treatment. Among those expected to speak at the rally are Iowa State Representatives Jennifer Konfrst and Zach Wahls, alongside Nancy Huisinga, a registered nurse and advocate from Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, and Rev. Lindsey Braun from the Urbandale United Church of Christ. Their presence signifies a united front against corporate practices seen as undermining workers’ rights.

Call to Action for UnityPoint Health

During the demonstration, participants will urge UnityPoint Health to respect its core values and cease its ongoing anti-union activities. As a multibillion-dollar healthcare institution, many community members believe it is imperative for UnityPoint to act responsibly and prioritize the welfare of its staff and patients over profit margins.

Conclusion

The fight for unionization at UnityPoint Health symbolizes a larger movement within healthcare toward advocating for labor rights. As the nurses prepare to cast their votes in October, they do so with the support of both their peers and their community, reflecting a broader call for equity, respect, and proper investment in the healthcare sector. The outcome of this vote may set a critical precedent not only for UnityPoint nurses but for healthcare workers across the region.