June 3, 2009: New leadership is getting the rank-and-file involved to win a strong contract. Members are making their voices heard.

Facing a July 10 expiration date, Teamsters at the University of Chicago Hospital are gearing up for contract negotiations.

Local 743 distributed a survey to gather contract proposals and the bargaining committee is reviewing these to develop a set of demands.

“We’re overworked and underpaid. We’re supposed to care about the hospital when management doesn’t care about us. It’s time to negotiate a contract that shows us respect,” commented Jeanne Moore, a housekeeper with 25 years seniority.

The bargaining unit covers over 1,500 Teamsters. The focus for the campaign is “This Hospital Works Because We Do.” Members plan to seek support from neighborhood community groups and students at the university.