No one should fear for their life at work

I was shocked and horrified by the stabbing of a valued member, colleague, and friend, while on the job at the San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. Our hearts are with the victim’s family, coworkers, and all those affected by this tragedy.

No one should have to fear for their safety at work, especially inside one of the region’s leading trauma centers. Our members have long sounded the alarm about unsafe conditions and chronic understaffing that put them at risk every day, as they serve as the social workers and behavioral health clinicians on the front lines of the city's mental health crisis.

We demand, expect, and will participate in a full and detailed investigation of this incident, and will continue to remain in close contact with hospital leadership, city officials and all relevant agencies as we seek answers and continue to fight for reliable and consistent safety protocols, adequate staffing, and the resources clinicians need to care for their patients and clients.

We will not rest until every worker can go to work knowing they will come home safely.

In solidarity,

Dan Russell
UPTE President & Chief Negotiator
Business Technology Support Analyst, UC Berkeley