Vermont Progressive Party Statement in Support of UVMSSU and VFNHP Workers

Montpelier, Vermont — The Vermont Progressive Party (VPP) stands in solidarity with UVM Support Staff United (UVMSSU) and the Vermont Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals (VFNHP) in their contract negotiation. 

The VPP believes it is the right of every worker to bargain collectively and to withhold their labor–to strike!–when management offers unacceptable terms. The VPP applauds UVMSSU and VFNHP for adopting common good provisions in their negotiations: safe staffing to protect patients; participating in the Milk with Dignity program to support our migrant workers; and, demanding UVMMC not lobby against Universal Health Care. 

Union members voted 82% to authorize a strike, a powerful demonstration of their commitment and solidarity. The VPP hopes that UVMMC management will offer terms acceptable to the workers before a strike is necessary, but the VPP fully supports UVMSSU and VFNHP membership if they strike, and we will be joining them on the picket line.