#USA #Des Moines #UnityPoint Health #Teamsters Local 90 #nurses union

UnityPoint Nurses Stand Up for Their Rights

On March 27, 2025, a vital press conference took place outside the Iowa Methodist Medical Center, where nurses from UnityPoint Health gathered to assert their demand for recognition of their right to unionize with Teamsters Local 90. This gathering represents a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle for labor rights within the healthcare sector, as nurses have faced substantial challenges in their quest for fair treatment and recognition.

For the past five months, these dedicated nurses have been organizing to unite under the Teamsters banner, aiming to improve their working conditions and patient care standards. However, their efforts have been met with aggressive actions from UnityPoint Health, which reportedly has spent over $1.8 million on external consultants to undermine their organizing efforts. This financial commitment to anti-union strategies underscores the importance of solidarity and the often uphill battle that employees face when trying to secure their rights in the workplace.

The conflict has led to four unfair labor practices being filed against UnityPoint by Teamsters Local 90. These charges include allegations of retaliation against employees for their union activities, intimidation and interrogation tactics directed at unpacking their determination, and the implementation of work rules that excessively restrict their rights. Furthermore, union officials have faced obstacles gaining access to hospital staff—an issue that threatens the very foundation of collective bargaining rights.

Despite the emphasis on operational efficiency from UnityPoint’s leadership, nurses argue that putting performance scores ahead of staff welfare compromises both worker safety and patient quality. They are fighting more than just for their own rights; they are committed to enhancing patient care and ensuring that adequate staffing levels are maintained, principles that are intrinsic to both their roles and the wellbeing of those they serve.

At the press conference, UnityPoint nurses, alongside members and leaders from Teamsters Local 90, rallied around their cause, sharing powerful testimonials and highlighting the necessity of unity in the face of adversity. Raul Alfaro, a key contact for the event, emphasized the collective strength that comes from joining forces: “We are here not only to fight for ourselves but for every nurse who left the profession due to untenable conditions. We stand for what's right.”

The growing movement reflects broader labor trends seen across various sectors where workers are taking a stand against employer overreach and demanding recognition for their rights. As such, observers speculate that this could herald not only a pivotal moment for UnityPoint nurses but also signal a resurgence in organized labor across the country.

The determination exhibited by UnityPoint nurses serves as a reminder that the fight for fair labor practices is far from over. The dedication to their cause showcases their commitment to secure a better future—not just for themselves, but for subsequent generations of healthcare workers.

The press conference stands as a call to action for healthcare institutions everywhere to reconsider their strategies surrounding employee rights and unionization efforts. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, it is the collective voice of the nurses that will resonate, reminding everyone involved of the vital importance of fair labor practices in the healthcare industry.