FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2025
Cleveland, OH—In a decisive victory for frontline caregivers and their patients, more than 95% of Metro Behavioral Health nurses have voted to join the Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) and AFT. This landslide win sends a clear message: nurses are ready to stand together for safer staffing, protection from workplace violence, and a stronger voice on the job.
The nurses’ decision to unionize comes at a critical time. Patricia Kane, Organizing Lead RN at Metro Behavioral Health, explained that understaffing and violence in healthcare settings have made it harder than ever to provide safe, quality care. “With nurses and health professionals facing deliberate understaffing and rampant violence, having a real voice in the workplace isn’t just important—it’s vital,” Patricia said. “A union is about standing together, knowing you’re not alone, and having the power of collective support and advocacy behind you. We stood together and said ‘Union YES’ because we know it’s better in a union. This is a win for all of us—and for every patient who depends on our care.”
By joining ONA and AFT, Metro Behavioral Health nurses are becoming part of a growing movement of health professionals across Ohio and the nation who are fighting for better working conditions and improved patient outcomes.
Rick Lucas, RN, President of the Ohio Nurses Association, praised the courage and determination shown by the Metro nurses. “These nurses have made it clear they are ready to lead the way in advocating for safer workplaces and better care,” Lucas said. “By voting overwhelmingly to join ONA and AFT, they’ve taken a bold step toward ensuring they have a real say in the decisions that impact their patients and their profession. It’s better in a union—for nurses, health professionals, and the communities we care for.
”The Ohio Nurses Association and AFT are proud to stand with the Metro Behavioral Health nurses as they move forward toward bargaining their first contract. Together, they will work to secure the resources and protections needed to deliver the highest standards of care.
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About ONA
Formed in 1904, the Ohio Nurses Association is a powerful network of nurses and health professionals. Our mission is to unite and empower nurses and health professionals, championing their rights, promoting professional practice, and advocating for quality care for all patients in Ohio, while fostering a strong and cohesive professional union community. To learn more or to become a member of the Ohio Nurses Association, visit www.ohnurses.org.
Contact: Michelle Day
Director of Communications & Technology
mediarequests@ohnurses.org