Emergency Health Workers in Sturgis Unite with Teamsters Local 120 for Stronger Representation

Unionization of Emergency Health Workers in Sturgis

In a significant move for labor rights and representation, a dedicated group of fifteen paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and other emergency health professionals from Sturgis, South Dakota, have made the decisive choice to unionize with Teamsters Local 120. This groundbreaking decision was revealed to the public on April 15, 2025, highlighting a collective effort to enhance their working conditions and ensure fair compensation.

Voices of the New Union Members

As part of the announcement, Casey Baker, a paramedic who is now a proud member of Teamsters Local 120, expressed the enthusiasm and determination felt within the newly formed union. “We’re proud and excited to officially become Teamsters,” said Baker. “Standing together with Local 120, we’re ready to negotiate a strong first contract. We know we’re backed by the strongest labor union in the country — and we’re just getting started.”
This sentiment echoes a broader trend among healthcare workers advocating for better labor conditions across the United States.

Aiming for Strong Representation

The motivation behind this unionization stems from the desire for professional representation that guarantees better working conditions and fair wages. The emergency health responders of Sturgis recognized the importance of organizing to ensure their rights are safeguarded and that they have a real stake in negotiating their employment terms.

James Heeren, a business agent for Local 120, welcomed these new union members with open arms, stating, “It's an honor to welcome these hardworking men and women to our union. Emergency health providers do some of the toughest and most important work in America, and I know they will bring that same energy as we work together to bargain a lucrative first contract.”
This partnership represents a commitment to not only uphold their rights but also to push for advancements that benefit both the workers and the community they serve.

Teamsters Local 120: A Defense for Workers

Teamsters Local 120 has a rich history of advocating for labor rights, proudly representing over 15,000 workers in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Their extensive experience in negotiations provides the emergency workers a robust platform from which to amplify their voices and concerns. Local 120 aims to provide strong legal and advocacy resources to these frontline workers, ensuring they can successfully navigate the complexities of negotiating contracts that affect their livelihoods.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Emergency Health Workers

The journey of these emergency health professionals is just beginning. By unionizing with Teamsters Local 120, they not only gain a powerful ally but also a new and significant chapter in their careers. As they prepare to negotiate their first contract, these workers are taking a stand not just for themselves but for future generations of healthcare professionals.

As local community members and observers watch closely, this development signifies a ripple effect that may inspire other healthcare workers across the nation to consider similar paths toward collective bargaining and stronger labor rights.

For those interested in following their story or understanding more about Teamsters Local 120, further details can be found at local120.org.

Conclusion

The decision of these 15 emergency health workers in Sturgis marks a pivotal moment in the labor movement, particularly within the healthcare sector. Their commitment to unity and improved working conditions sets a precedent that could pave the way for more collective actions across various sectors.

As the landscape of labor rights continues to evolve, the collective voice of the Sturgis emergency health workers will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping their futures and advocating for the rights of workers nationwide.