TAKE A STAND!
Protesting stagnant paychecks, public health nurses will rally
The following is from the Washington State Nurses Association:
SEATTLE, WA (September 26, 2025) — Seattle King County public health nurses will be holding a rally from noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 outside the King County Chinook Building at 401 5th Ave. They will be rallying on the corner of 5th Avenue and Jefferson Street. 
The nurses have been negotiating with the county for eight months.
King County’s public health nurses, who provide a safety net for King County communities, are watching their paychecks stagnate because of broken promises by the county. The nurses are paid based on a 10-step salary scale. This means after 10 years as a public health nurse, they no longer get raises – just a small cost of living adjustment. By comparison, nurses’ salary scales at most area hospitals go to 25 or 30 steps.
Photo: WSNA
“We want the county to value us in a way that aligns with its True North and values,” said Kiesha-Garcia Stubbs, BSN, RN, a public health nurse. “Public health nurses hold a unique level of tolerance, but we are done tolerating different treatment than other nurses. We deserve more, and we will not stop fighting until we get it.”
King County’s public health nurses provide direct care in clinics, support mothers and babies, care for residents experiencing homelessness, provide health care in jails, connect people with food programs, and so much more.
They should feel valued and supported for their years served.
TAKE A STAND: Join public health nurses on Saturday, September 27 at noon for a rally at the King County Chinook Building (401 5th Ave). You can also follow the public health nurses (staff) on Instagram.
CHECK OUT THE UNION DIFFERENCE in Washington: higher wages, affordable health and dental care, job and retirement security.
FIND OUT HOW TO JOIN TOGETHER with your co-workers to negotiate for better wages, benefits, and a voice at work. Or go ahead and contact a union organizer today!
