I want to make you aware of a new tactic that is being used by the CNA/NNOC, the
This union has sent out multiple brochures over the last few months; you have probably gotten at least one at home because they have been blanketing Texas RNs with mailings and emails trying to generate interest in the union. In the previous CNA/NNOC brochures, the tear-off/mail-in card that was attached said the signer either wanted more information about the CNA/NNOC or supported some of the issues this union claims to support. As best we can tell, the union was just trying to build its mailing list with those cards.
However, the most recent brochure sent out by this union has a new and potentially dangerous kind of tear off/mail in card attached. This new card is a union authorization card. It is potentially dangerous because some might sign it without ever realizing it is the same as a legal document; nurses who sign the card aren’t simply indicating an interest in learning more about the union, they are designating the union as their representative for the purpose of collective bargaining. It is essentially like signing a blank check or a power of attorney. Among other things, it authorizes this union to do your talking for you rather than you keeping your right to deal directly with your manager on all issues related to your employment.
Union organizers may tell you that, when you sign a card like this, you are just asking for more information, or that you need to sign in order to be able to vote if there would ever be an election, or that “everyone in your unit except you has signed up”. Not true! Please do not be fooled by these union tricks and please get the facts before you sign anything. For example, did you know that the CNA/NNOC has taken nurses away from the bedside and out on strike a total of 29 times since 1990?
I think the fact the union has now changed the language on this card is particularly deceitful. This union is assuming you will not know or will not pay attention to the difference and is attempting to take advantage of that. I believe, if most people know what this card is all about and what it really means, they will choose to say “no” and will not sign.
I think Methodist Healthcare hospitals, our patients and our nurses are better off without a union. I also believe once our nurses have all the facts, the vast majority of the nurses will agree that they are better off without third party representation. Please talk with me, any other member of senior management, or Human Resources if you have questions. The Methodist Healthcare Ethics Line (1-800-351-2764) can also be used should you wish to remain anonymous.
Also, if you have not had the chance to review the employee brochure “Your Voice in a Union-Free Work Force” sent to your home a few days ago please do so. This document details the Methodist Healthcare’s Board of Governors’ Policy Statement on Unions. If you have not received this brochure, please ask your supervisor for a copy.
Sincerely,
Jaime Wesolowski
President/CEO
Methodist Healthcare
