Working people across the United States regularly step up to help out our friends, neighbors and communities during these trying times. In our Service & Solidarity Spotlight series, we’ll showcase one of these stories every day. Here’s today’s story.
Earlier this month, staff at the University of Vermont (UVM) Health Network Home Health & Hospice voted overwhelmingly in favor of forming a union with AFT Vermont, an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Members of Hospice United perform a number of essential duties related to palliative and end-of-life care for patients with terminal illnesses. Despite a powerful 88% of workers voting to form Hospice United, administrators are still trying to challenge the inclusion of certain positions in the bargaining unit—such as chaplains and bereavement coordinators. Staff aren’t deterred however, and are looking forward to beginning negotiations on a first contract.
“We’re doing this to build a better hospice,” said Lindsay Gagnon, a hospice nurse practitioner at UVM. “We deserve fair caseloads, so we can give each patient and family the best care possible at the end of life. We deserve fair pay that reflects the highly skilled and specialized care we provide. We deserve respect and a voice, to ensure every team member has what they need to thrive while doing the work we are so passionate about.”
Nicole DiVita, the president for Healthcare at AFT Vermont, added: “This is a big win. When healthcare workers have a say in their workplace, care gets better for everyone. We’ve seen over 700 new members join AFT Vermont in just the last few months—it’s a powerful time for healthcare workers in our state.”