Tens of thousands of Los Angeles County workers represented by SEIU Local 721 staged a two-day strike this week following stalled contract negotiations with the county. The walkout began Monday and included a large march through downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday.
The union stated the strike was in response to alleged Unfair Labor Practices by the county during bargaining for a new contract. The previous agreement expired in March.
A large crowd of workers gathered outside the Hall of Administration on Temple Street Tuesday morning before marching through downtown streets. Banners displayed messages referencing the ULP strike and the workers' role as a safety net for the county's residents.
The demonstration included an act of civil disobedience at the intersection of 5th and Figueroa streets where over a dozen individuals sat in the roadway. Law enforcement took 14 people into custody, citing and releasing them at the scene. Street closures were reported in the area due to the protest.
SEIU Local 721 leadership has filed 44 labor law violation charges against the county. These charges include claims of refusing to bargain in good faith, restricting union organizers' access, retaliating against workers for union activity, and contracting out positions held by union members.
County officials maintain they are facing significant financial challenges, citing a large tentative settlement for sexual assault claims and impacts related to January wildfires. A spokesperson stated the county aims to provide fair compensation while avoiding a structural deficit that could lead to layoffs.
The strike, involving approximately 55,000 members across various departments, resulted in closures of some libraries, healthcare clinics, and administrative counters.
Lillian Cabral, a worker who has been at Los Angeles General Medical Center since 1978 and is part of the bargaining committee, described the strike as a significant moment. She expressed frustration with delays and a perceived lack of movement from the county during negotiations.
