Teamsters' Leaders Join Striking Nurses for Better Working Conditions at Henry Ford Genesys

Teamsters Leaders Stand with Striking Nurses

In a show of solidarity, Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien and General Secretary-Treasurer Fred Zuckerman plan to support nurses and caseworkers on strike at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital. The strike, which has persisted for nearly two months, began on September 1, 2025, due to unresolved issues concerning essential working conditions, including the nurse-to-patient ratios and wage structures.

Over 750 nurses and case workers are represented by Teamsters Local 332. These workers resorted to striking after the hospital management failed to provide a satisfactory contract that would address their pressing demands. Multiple meetings between Local 332 representatives and hospital leadership have yielded little progress, as hospital executives continue to stall negotiations with inadequate offers, prompting the teamsters to amplify their demands.

O'Brien and Zuckerman are slated to join the striking workers on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Henry Ford Genesys Hospital. This rally aims to underscore the Teamsters’ commitment to their members and emphasize the urgency of securing a strong contract for the hardworking nurses and caseworkers.

The nurses and caseworkers have expressed concerns regarding their workloads, citing that the current nurse-to-patient ratios are not sustainable. In many instances, workers are stretched too thin, which compromises the quality of patient care. In addition, they are seeking fair overtime pay and other premium compensations that reflect their dedication and effort.

Teamsters Local 332 President has voiced the frustration over the stalled negotiations, stating, “Our members deserve a contract that respects their hard work and the vital services they provide to our community.” The frustrations have resonated not only amongst the membership but also within the local community, which has rallied support for the striking health professionals.

The presence of O'Brien and Zuckerman is expected to energize the efforts of the nurses and case workers and draw public attention to their plight. Union officials hope that with collective action and heightened visibility, they can pressure hospital management into reconsidering their stance on negotiations.

Members of the community are invited to show their support during the strike. Signs, banners, and displays of solidarity will be welcomed as the nurses rally for their right to fair treatment and a workplace that prioritizes patient and staff safety.

As the strike continues, the Teamsters union is committed to standing by its members and advocating for meaningful changes that impact the working conditions of healthcare professionals in Michigan. The union has declared that they will not back down until a fair and conducive contract is achieved for their members, reinforcing the importance of collective bargaining in the healthcare sector.

In conclusion, the Teamsters leadership’s decision to join forces with the striking nurses at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital highlights the critical nature of labor rights and the ongoing struggles for fair working conditions in healthcare. As the strike approaches its two-month mark, the determination of the striking workers and their union leaders remains steadfast, aiming to secure a brighter future for healthcare workers in the region.