ESC Medical Professionals Hold Historic ULP Strike

ESC medical professionals

Members of the Engineers and Scientists of California (ESC/IFPTE Local 20) held a powerful Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) strike against Santa Clara County. More than 200 medical professionals working at hospitals and labs in the County held a 3-day ULP strike because of bad-faith negotiations with their employer. The vast majority of the unit turned out on the picket line every single day to tell the County they must negotiate in good faith and must respect their rights as workers and union members.  

This was a historic occasion: the first time most members of the group had ever been on strike. The picket-line activities reaffirmed the group’s unity and strength that they will all carry as they move forward. While addressing the group, a member said, “Us, ESC, we’re a small group, less than 200. Some would call us 'lab nerds.' Some would say we live in the basement. Many say, 'They won’t strike, and they never have.' Well, look at us now.” 

The strike showed the County the level of organization from the group, and the solidarity and strength they have standing together. It also generated significant media coverage. Check out the links below:  

KQED: South Bay Medical Workers Planning Strike Over Contract Talks 

San Jose Spotlight: Santa Clara County health care workers go on strike 

KQED: Santa Clara County Medical Workers Begin 3-Day Strike 

KRON4: Santa Clara County Health Workers Launch Strike 

KPFA: Nearly 200 Unionized Santa Clara County Workers Launched a 3-Day Strike (begins at 32:11)

 Also take a look at this video recap of our strike from our awesome union siblings at RNPA.