By Malachi Mena
Mission nurses are talking of a potential strike due to staffing issues. Activists in the area are attempting to help these nurses by raising money in case of a strike.
On Open Air’s series, People’s Radio Hour, Rosemary Lord joined Jennifer Hampton to discuss the strike and how they’re working to support the Mission nurses union. Lord explained that as a longtime socialist, supporting workers is one of her key values. After Lord moved to Asheville, they heard about how Mission Hospital had changed after being purchased by the Hospital Corporation of America, which they described as a major issue for the community. It was really important to Lord to be a part of the effort that would help the nurses organize for a new contract.
Hampton went on to describe Lord as a “powerhouse of an organizer,” mentioning all their work with Asheville Food & Beverage United, the Asheville chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, and the canvassing efforts for the tourism taxes for affordable housing. Lord responded, claiming that the affordable housing issue and the Mission nurses issue seemed connected. They said, “It’s all about the fact that Asheville could easily be a place that works for working people. There’s enough money coming in here. There’s enough resources for everybody, but the problem is it’s not distributed in an equitable way.”
The two then went on to discuss why the nurses need a strike fund and Mission’s policies and regulations. For more on the topic, listen to the second half of this week’s episode of Open Air.
Check the Asheville for Nurses Linktree for information about how to donate to the strike fund, volunteer to canvass, and more.
Family-friendly fundraiser for the Mission Nurses Strike Fund at One World Brewing West.
Sunday, July 28, noon–4 p.m.
Featuring performances by Monster Wave and the Rich Nelson Band, speeches by nurses, and a raffle.
Community Picket at Mission Hospital.
Tuesday, August 6, gathering at 5:30, starting at 6
All community members (and their pets!) are welcome to join and show support for Mission nurses. Signs provided or make your own!
AFBU General Membership meeting
July 30, 7 p.m.
12 Baskets
Open to members, and new membership can be established at the meeting.
Private Housing Caucus Group Meeting
July 30 at 6 p.m.
Email Jen to find out more.
WNC Workers Assembly Organizing 101
August 1, 5:30 p.m.
West Asheville Park, 198 Vermont Ave.
Email Jen to register and learn more.
Contact Jen: jen@justeconomicswnc.org