Union of Social Workers

Social Work Union

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Other Links Members Area Contact Us Make a Donation Buy T-Shirt	Organizing & The History of USW
	History	Philosophy	Testimonials
	History Of the Union of Social Workers • Fall 1999 -- Layoffs of 4 social workers at Cambridge Health Alliance rekindled concern about job security and wages. • A letter protesting the style in which these layoffs were conducted was written and signed by social workers throughout the Alliance. • Social Workers at CHA surveyed possible unions. • Kris Rondeau spoke to social workers about the philosophy and working style of her union. • Social workers voted unanimously to unionize with Kris and her HUCTW chapter of AFCSME an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. • Fall 1999 - 2001 -- social work volunteers assessed social work needs and readiness to unionize. • 2001 - 2003 -- Three key steps which were victories for USW took place: 1. John O'Brien , CEO of CHA, agreed to recognize social workers as an independent bargaining unit. This unprecedented decision allowed us to unionize on the basis of profession. 2. USW was given voluntary recognition as a union. 3. When negotiations got underway, we were asked to negotiate wages prior to establishing a formal contract. • Kris Rondeau spent 4 years “negotiating a 3-year contract for USW. • The USW contract included an average 44% wage increase for CHA social workers.
	Philosophy of USW
	• Kindness is the central building block. • Every person is included. • Mutual respect between union and management is expected. • We seek to solve problems using open communication and interpersonal skill rather than a lawyer. • Change is a product of collaboration. • The well being of USW and social workers at CHA is interdependent with the well being of our clients, the CHA as a whole, and the communities in which we function and live. • We are committed to helping individuals who are new to the field. • We are committed to helping social work (or other mental health worker) groups that seek to unionize. • As more social workers are unionized, the strength of USW will be supported and enhanced.
	TESTIMONIALS ON WHAT THE PRESENCE AND POWER OF THE USW MEANS TO MEMBERS: “USW has helped restore dignity and pride in my professional identity.” Paul Goldberg “Community, support (and the ability to live above the poverty line)!” Gail Shulman “USW has provided social workers with visibility, a voice, respect, and a living wage—all of which were missing before the union existed.” Laura Pabo “To me, the USW means community. A community of people that support, encourage, and defend individuals of the community for the betterment of the community.” Anonymous “USW has meant a living wage and a wonderful opportunity to work together with other social workers. It’s also helped make the larger hospital community more aware of social workers and their crucial role in the institution.” Jeannie Seidler Back To Top