Members in Iowa Win Against Right-to-Work Decertification Campaign

Nurses in Burlington, Iowa, represented by CWA Local 7181, kicked off July with an overwhelming defeat of a decertification attempt supported by the Right to Work Foundation. Members rejected decertification 125-55 with a 90% turnout.

CWA Local 7181 President Liz Davies led a strong team, embracing systematic one-on-one conversations to combat an aggressive anti-union campaign. The opposition used classic messaging, including accusations that the union was a “third party,” that the company would have less flexibility working with a union, and that the union was standing in the way of pay raises. The CWA team maintained their positive, pro-union message and resisted distraction.

Union members left the decertification effort stronger than ever with their sights set on bargaining a strong contract and renewed organizing. The unit added 13 members during the campaign and is looking to continue growing.