Members of the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals (UMMAP), a union representing a swath of Michigan Medicine workers, have taken a substantial step toward industrial action after an overwhelming majority signaled approval to strike. The vote, indicating a 97% favor for the strike, comes amidst prolonged bargaining sessions that have, since February, failed to culminate in a contract agreement, according to CBS News Detroit.
UMMAP, a relatively new body that has formed within the last couple of years, encompasses some 4,500 professionals from diverse departments spanning rehab, behavioral health, lab, medical assistants, and hospital services, to advanced diagnostic and procedure technologists, as reported by ClickOnDetroit. "With 97% of our members voting in favor to strike for a fair contract, we made loud and clear that Michigan Medicine and the University of Michigan need to stand up for their workers," declared Penni Toney, UMMAP president, in a stance on their demands for recognition and respectful treatment which the prolonged negotiations have not yet delivered, fueling the union's resolve.
The union's grievances are rooted in what they describe as a disregard from Michigan Medicine management, who have yet to respond with a counteroffer to the economic proposal presented back in July, despite setting a target settlement date for October 16. This perceived lack of responsiveness prompted the authorization, as Penni Toney articulated, "We are just asking for basic respect as longtime employees," Michigan Medicine management must recognize that they are only able to boast about the hospital's world-class care because of the folks working tirelessly for their patients according to a statement obtained by WHMI.
