Two weeks ago, a majority of us decided to form a union with 1199SEIU in order to ensure that decisions affecting our organization and its clients are made in accordance with the high standards we hold ourselves to as healthcare professionals. We have made multiple unsuccessful attempts over the last year to address serious concerns regarding management actions and policies, problematic communication, and the overall direction of the organization that ultimately undermines the safety and well-being of vulnerable clients.

We have therefore taken the necessary step to join 1199SEIU, to ensure that our qualified medical and mental health professionals are key determinants in the vital decision-making that impacts the provision of care, and thus client and staff safety. We have concluded that a union is the right choice for us, so that we can serve our clients responsibly, maintain the quality that this organization has been known for, as well as protect our jobs from unjust terminations and layoffs. It is essential to our core Mission that we preserve all current clinic staff, in order to serve our clients safely and effectively in the clinic, as well as in the service of other agency programs. We ask that you not fight our decision by spending the organization’s resources and taxpayer money on legal fees. Instead, we want to move forward after the election to ensure we evolve into a healthier and safer, more sustainable, and productive organization that we can continue to serve proudly for years to come.