ST. CLAIR SHORES, Mich. (May 29, 2025) — Last week, workers from five Ciena Healthcare nursing homes in metro Detroit, including the Regency at St. Clair Shores, went on a one-day strike to fight for fair pay and a fix to chronic staffing shortages. After the strike, Ciena began delivering disciplinary actions against workers for exercising a fundamental and legally protected right. Standing in solidarity with the workers, Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) issued the following statement:

“The right to strike is a critical tool workers hold in the fight for good pay and safe working conditions. As these nursing home workers stand up not only for themselves, but also for the safety and well-being of the residents they serve, they should be met with respect and good faith at the bargaining table. Instead of engaging in retaliation and fearmongering, Ciena should focus on reaching a fair contract — because no one who cares for our most vulnerable neighbors should be left struggling to care for themselves.”

As Chair of the Senate Health Policy Committee, Sen. Hertel has been focused on building a health care system that better supports both those receiving and providing care. Among the legislation he has championed is a package to restore the collective bargaining rights of over 35,000 home health care workers, ensuring these essential workers have the tools they need to secure higher wages, better benefits, and pathways for professional development. 

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