Professional Power 2026 held in Palm Springs, California, brought together Healthcare professionals from The Pharmacy Guild/IAM and IAM Healthcare.
District 78 and Local 1231 leaders participated in this progressive symposium, dedicated to strengthening worker power, advancing workplace safety, and reinforcing the collective voice of healthcare members.
Susanna Duncan, Central Chair of Local 1231 shared her experience saying, “As a healthcare worker from Canada, it was inspiring to see that many of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the United States, mirror those we experience within the Canadian healthcare system, including staffing shortages, burnout, workplace safety concerns, and the ongoing fight for fair compensation and respect on the job. It reinforced the importance of unions and collective action in advocating for frontline healthcare workers across both countries.”
Stefania Maratta, Vice President of Local 1231, eloquently articulated the value unions contribute to reduce the stressors and pressures in the workplace. She stated, “Our Union, through these Interactive Seminars, empowers each one of us to come together, to improve our work environment and identify what is lacking so that we can bring about lasting change.”
Lystra Mohammed, Secretary Treasurer of Local 1231 recounted : “The panel discussion was the highlight of the conference. Our President Merry St Bernard shone in the forum about contract negotiations. She answered the questions with confidence and poise, and showed a great deal of knowledge on the topic covered. She made us proud. Local 1231 was also the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award.”
Members connected, shared experiences, and built momentum around key issues impacting the Health-care sector. The focus was on unity, respect, and advocacy. Participants emerged, armed with knowledge and a better understanding of how to tackle the problems and issues in the workplace.
“If the workers of the world want to win, all they have to do is recognize their own Solidarity.”
Post Credit : IAM District 78