The nursing home workers at Plaza Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Elizabeth, NJ voted on August 4 to rejoin 1199SEIU. Plaza is the second of three nursing homes to rejoin 1199SEIU since a chaotic time three years ago when the workers decertified their affiliation with 1199SEIU and joined a smaller less powerful union. They recognized their mistake and realize they have a brighter future with 1199SEIU.

“I was with 1199SEIU before and I know how much we were able to accomplish, said Plaza housekeeper Clintona Booker. “I am excited to be back with 1199SEIU.”

The Plaza workers say they voted to join 1199SEIU because they need the security and strength that comes with its unified voice. The union’s contracts have a solid record of providing members with peace of mind, and also helping to improve the quality of care that workers are able to provide. Geralda Alexis, a dietary aid at Plaza said “I am happy that 1199SEIU now our union. We are now stronger and can negotiate for better wages, affordable health benefits and a decent retirement.”

The plaza workers are already planning their next steps and forming a committee so that they can get to the bargaining table as soon as possible to negotiate a contract.