The largest nurses’ strike in New York City history began Monday morning after contract negotiations between hospital officials and the nurses’ union broke down.
Nearly 15,000 Nurses Walk Off the Job
About 15,000 nurses represented by the New York State Nursing Association walked off the job at Mount Sinai, Montefiore, and NewYork-Presbyterian hospitals across the city. Picket lines formed early Monday as nurses demanded higher pay, safer staffing levels and stronger workplace protections.
Union and Hospital Responses
Union leaders accused hospital executives of prioritizing profits over patient safety, saying management failed to address concerns about staffing, health benefits and violence in the workplace. Hospital officials countered that union demands were excessive and said they are prepared to continue operating with temporary and reassigned nurses.
State Response and Political Support
Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency ahead of the strike and urged both sides to reach a deal, warning that prolonged walkouts could endanger patients. Several state leaders, including Attorney General Letitia James, publicly voiced support for the nurses.
Patient Care During the Strike
Hospitals said emergency departments remain open and urged patients not to delay seeking care. The union echoed that message, saying patients should still seek treatment while nurses continue to push for a contract they say will improve care and safety citywide.
For more on the nurses’ strike, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.