Members,
Today, on May Day—International Workers’ Day—the Union of American Physicians and Dentists unites with others across the globe to celebrate the power of working individuals.
As doctors and advanced practice clinicians, our diagnoses and treatment saves lives. But too often, the essential value of our labor is overlooked, and the working conditions we need to provide the highest standard of care are challenged. That is why our union exists: to ensure that our voices are heard, our rights are protected, and our professions are respected.
We honor your dedication not just as medical practitioners, but as union members fighting for better working conditions, proper resources, reasonable hours, and the autonomy to practice medicine according to your professional judgment. When we stand together, we secure contracts that build a better future. Not just for ourselves, but for our patients, our communities, and generations to come. Every victory we have won—fairer contracts, safer workplaces—has been powered by collective action and member solidarity.
This year, we reaffirm our commitment to each other and the labor movement. We honor the victories we have achieved by standing united and we look ahead to the work still before us. In every bargaining session, every membership meeting, every picket line, we are strengthening our union.
Our collective bargaining power has achieved many victories since our founding 53 years ago, but more work needs to be done. The challenges we face—increasing corporatization of medicine, administrative burdens that take away from patient care, and employer bureaucracies—can only be addressed through action. As we move forward, we invite you to strengthen our collective power:
- Attend an upcoming membership meeting to share your experiences and ideas
- Reach out to colleagues who may not be as engaged in our union’s activities
- Join a demonstration (such as a march or rally) to experience firsthand the power of solidarity
Thank you for being part of the UAPD, and for making your voice—our voice—stronger every day.
In solidarity,
Stuart Bussey, MD, JD
UAPD President