Tentative Contract Agreement - Second Strike Averted

We have arrived at a tentative agreement for the agency to spend $15000 on bonuses, forcing them off their position that they could afford nothing for us.

In our settlement, we did not agree to withdraw our Unfair Labor Practice charge over management's threat to "terminate" worker health insurance if they went on strike.  We want management to know that intimidation practices will have consequences.

By staying united and willing to fight, we gained, not only some money, but power at the table. We are a stronger union now. The respect and clout we gained during this round of negotiations will serve us well next spring, when we enter into bargaining for a full contract.

Contract ratification will be by mail.  We will be sending out ballots later this month. 

Human service workers at Fidelity House in Lawrence held a spirited 24-hour strike for quality care that began at 9am on May 20.  Chanting and singing all day, the workers made clear their commitment to stopping the erosion of services to their clients, and their hope that the company will show the same commitment. 

Staff turnover due to poor wages results in the loss of critical relationships to Fidelity's developmentally disabled clients.  The workers, who have not received a raise from the company in two years, are asking for a commitment to training and a minimal raise of, on average, 10 cents an hour, but  Fidelity is refusing to offer anything at all. 

As State Representative William Lantigua put it, "1%?  I mean, when do you hear a dispute about 1%?"

  See article in the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune

  More pictures!