Corewell Health East Nurses Prepare for Picketing for Fair Contracts and Safety

On April 30, 2026, nurses at Corewell Health East, represented by Teamsters Local 2024, are gearing up to hold a practice picket at the hospital's Trenton campus at 6 p.m. This event aims to spotlight several pressing concerns including demands for safe nurse-to-patient ratios, equitable wages, accessible health insurance, and improved workplace safety

The upcoming picket follows a significant vote by 10,000 nurses, which saw an overwhelming 90% in favor of authorizing a strike if a fair contract is not reached. This escalation is a response to what the nurses describe as numerous ongoing attacks and labor law violations by Corewell management. Since their unionization in November 2024, the nurses have faced a fervent union-busting campaign costing approximately $1.7 million and have continued to stand firm against such tactics

Furthermore, Teamsters Local 2024 has submitted several unfair labor practice charges against Corewell Health East, including a notable filing made just last week. This charge pertains to unilateral changes made by the management that eliminated and reallocated positions that were previously part of the bargaining unit. This move has intensified the conflict, leading to widespread feelings of unrest and dissatisfaction among the nurses

The Teamsters are adamant that they will not relent until a fair offer is presented by Corewell management—one that not only protects the interests of nurses but also ensures the safety and well-being of patients in their care. This practice picket serves as a precursor to what may evolve into more serious actions, should the hospital's administration fail to respond appropriately to their demands

Scheduled details of the practice picket are as follows:

- When: Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. ET
- Who: Teamsters Local 2024 members
- Where: Corewell Health Trenton Hospital, 5450 Fort Street, Trenton, MI 48183

This picket is not just a show of solidarity among nurses but a critical call for the necessary changes that will ensure safer working conditions. It highlights the ongoing struggle for labor rights in the healthcare industry, where workers are seeking to stand up against what they perceive as unjust practices that jeopardize both their well-being and the quality of healthcare services provided

As events unfold, the outcome of this labor dispute could have far-reaching implications, not only for the nurses at Corewell Health East but for healthcare workers nationwide who face similar challenges in their workplaces. The situation remains tense, and all eyes are on the management to see if they will engage in meaningful negotiations to resolve these matters.