Union members at Choate Mental Health to picket

A Call for Better Working Conditions Amidst Growing Concerns

In a stunning display of solidarity and determination, nearly 50 union members at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna, Illinois, gathered on the grounds of the facility to stage an informational picket. This action, taken in the midst of ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding the care and treatment of residents, underscores the deep-seated concerns of these dedicated professionals.

Background: Choate's Troubled History

The Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center has faced a myriad of issues over the years, including allegations of abuse and neglect. Recent investigations have revealed disturbing patterns of mistreatment, with residents suffering physical harm, such as being punched, slapped, and hosed down. These incidents have not only damaged the reputation of the facility but have also raised critical questions about the state's approach to caring for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Struggle for Better Working Conditions

The union members, who are part of a broader effort to improve working conditions and patient care, have been advocating for changes that address the systemic issues plaguing the facility. Their demands include better staffing, more transparent management practices, and a safer environment for both residents and staff.

Key Demands

• Improved Staffing: One of the primary concerns is the inadequate staffing levels, which contribute to long appointment wait times for patients. This delay can exacerbate mental health issues and undermine the quality of care provided.
• Transparent Management: Union members are pushing for management practices that prioritize transparency and accountability. They believe that random and unreasonable management decisions lead to poor morale among staff and compromise patient care.
• Enhanced Safety Measures: Given the recent revelations of abuse and neglect, there is a pressing need for enhanced safety measures to protect both residents and staff from harm.

The Picket: A Symbol of Resilience

The informational picket on the grounds of the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center was a visible manifestation of these union members' commitment to their cause. Despite the challenges they face, they remain steadfast in their resolve to advocate for better working conditions and improved patient care.

Community Support

The picket was not just about union members; it was also an opportunity for the community to show its support. Locals stopped by to express solidarity with the picketers, many of whom are neighbors and community members. This outpouring of support is a testament to the strong bonds within the community and underscores the broader societal implications of these issues.

Reflections from the Field: A Psychologist's Perspective

Rachel Kaya, a psychologist who participated in a similar strike at Kaiser Permanente several months ago, provided valuable insights into the motivations behind such actions. According to her, the drive to strike stemmed from the determination to provide professional treatment that patients deserve. The tight-knit community on Maui where she worked further emphasized the importance of local support in sustaining such efforts.

Sustaining the Strike

Kaya highlighted several key factors that helped sustain the strike:

• Community Support: The support from the community was instrumental, with locals feeding the strikers and offering moral support.
• Professional Colleagues: Colleagues in the medical field also rallied behind the union, recognizing the importance of their cause.
• Resolute Determination: The picket line became a symbol of unity and solidarity among the strikers, who remained determined to achieve their goals despite the challenges.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the progress made in securing a first contract at Kaiser Permanente, challenges remain at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center. Union members continue to grapple with issues such as long appointment wait times and inadequate staffing levels, which threaten the quality of care provided to residents.

Disappointments in the Contract

While the contract secured by Kaiser Permanente's union preserved pensions and increased salaries, it did not fully address all the concerns. Appointment wait times for patients remain too long, and many skilled providers have opted to leave Kaiser employment due to the unfulfilled promises. This exodus has left the facility understaffed and struggling to meet the growing demand for mental health services.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The informational picket at Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles within the mental health care system. The union members' bravery in standing up for better working conditions and improved patient care is a testament to their dedication and resilience.

As we move forward, it is crucial to address these systemic issues head-on. The state must prioritize transparency, accountability, and adequate staffing to ensure that residents receive the care they deserve. The community, too, must remain vigilant in supporting these efforts, recognizing that the well-being of mental health workers is intricately linked to the well-being of their patients.

References

• AFSCME stages informational pickets at Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center
• Reflecting on the longest ever mental health strike
• Problems with abuse, neglect, and cover-ups at Choate extend statewide