MNA Strike FAQ

SHARE Members During an MNA Strike

As you may know, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) has taken a vote about going on strike. SHARE members are asking questions about what will happen if there is a strike. Just in case, we are answering some of the questions we’re hearing.  

• Should I go to work if the MNA goes on strike?

  Yes. The MNA is not asking SHARE members to stay out of work if they strike. The SHARE contract, like most union contracts, says we won't go on strike while the contract is in effect. SHARE employees would not be protected from discipline if they didn’t come to work.

• I would like to show my support for the nurses in the MNA -- How should I do that?

  We expect the MNA will welcome us to walk their picket line with them. You should do this on your own time: before or after work, or during your regular lunch break.

• Can my supervisor assign me work normally done by striking workers?

  In many cases, yes. Employers often reassign work to maintain operations during a strike. However, you cannot be asked to do work that is not in line with your own job title and description, and especially nothing that you are unqualified to do, or that would put anyone at risk. If you are concerned that you’re being asked to do work that’s outside of your expertise, or are worried about safety for yourself or others, you should direct those concerns to your manager. We know that that can sometimes be difficult: please contact SHARE if you would like help.

• Can I talk to the media about the strike?

  It’s unlikely that this will come up. However, media representatives sometimes have questions for employees surrounding a strike, especially at the site of a picket line. You should be cautious. UMass Memorial may have relevant policies about media communication.

  The MNA leadership and UMass Memorial will both have their own messaging, and you can direct the media to them.

  If you have questions, SHARE can help you ensure you don’t violate workplace rules or misrepresent the situation.

• How long would a strike last, and what happens after?

  Strikes can last a day, or can continue much longer, with many taking some weeks to resolve. When a strike ends, normal operations usually resume, although there may be a transition period. Staffing, assignments, and workflows should return to usual.

If you need advice, give the SHARE office a call at 508-929-4020 or email share.comment@theshareunion.org. We'll be staffing the phones, and have SHARE organizers at the hospitals to help resolve any issues. If you get the voicemail, leave a message and we’ll call you back.