NHP news | August 2025

In her latest column, AFT President Randi Weingarten reflects on the true meaning of Labor Day—not just barbecues and back-to-school sales, but a day rooted in the struggle for workers’ dignity. She calls out the Trump-Vance administration’s betrayal of working people through Project 2025 and the so-called big, beautiful bill; and she reminds us why union power is essential: to fight for fair pay, healthcare, public schools, and a democracy that works for all. “Unions enable working people not just to ask for things from those in power, but to have some power of their own,” she writes.

 

Workers built this country, and workers deserve an economy, a government and a country for the people, not the billionaires. In the streets and on the shop floor, in union halls and the halls of Congress, this Labor Day we’re going to show the billionaires who we are and how we fight. Find an event near you to join in the fight.

 

As part of the more than 60,000-member Alliance of Health Care Unions, members of the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Health Professionals have been in national bargaining with Kaiser Permanente throughout the summer, fighting for safe staffing, fair wages, strong patient care standards, and a voice on the job. Earlier this month, OFNHP members rallied in downtown Portland to demonstrate unity and strength in the fight for justice at Kaiser. They were joined by activists and leaders, including AFT President Randi Weingarten.

 

Protecting patients and families from immigration raids involves preparation, knowing our rights and having a plan in place. The AFT has put together a toolkit to help you and your members in the event that Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows up. Check out our page that includes a sample healthcare facilities pledge and “know your rights” cards. Members can also learn what to do if ICE knocks on your door.