News around AFT | Kansas University Nurses' Association

Extending care far beyond hospital walls

Photo of OSUNO/ONA members standing together

It’s important to members of the Ohio State University Nurses Organization/Ohio Nurses Association/AFT not just to talk the talk, but also to walk the walk when it comes to community care and service. One way to exemplify this was by hosting the local’s first ever First Book event on April 18 where OSUNO generously donated books to students at a local elementary school. The OSUNO nurses spread joy by putting books into the eager hands of hundreds of students at West Broad Elementary School, a K-5 school on the west side of Columbus.

The road to more equitable workplaces

Pictured from left to right, are Zach Sokolowski, Tracy Rocco, and Nic Tobin, professionals who work in Michigan Medicine lab settings. They are holding posters placed across Michigan Medicine facilities, listing all of the job descriptions that UMMAP represents.

In March, more than 500 professionals who work in Michigan Medicine laboratory settings, including medical technologists, laboratory technicians, histotechnologists and clinical technologists united under the banner of United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals by officially certifying it as their union. UMMAP, which is affiliated with the AFT, is a multi-bargaining unit union of more than 4,200 healthcare workers throughout the Michigan Medicine system. The members are now bargaining a first contract with the university, with the goal of fostering an equitable workplace culture at Michigan Medicine, ensuring that healthcare professionals from the three main hospitals in Ann Arbor to the 125 external clinics across the state are given the respect and support they deserve.

Fighting for equality and respect

Photo of Erin Grace, Oregon Nurses Association member, holding sign that reads "Nurses on Strike. ONA"

My name is Erin Grace. I am a wife, mom and proud nurse. I have lived and worked in this community for 20 years. My nursing career began more than 20 years ago in labor and delivery. Bringing life into the world was my calling. I helped deliver more than 5,000 babies, welcoming newborns and caring for thousands of families throughout Lane County and far beyond.