The Oregon Labor Dispatch: February 5, 2026
SUPPORT WORKERS
These 135 vital healthcare workers are fighting for a contract that prioritizes the wellbeing of providers and patients. Support Here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
A New Generation of Black Voices
Today: February 5, 2025
Together we are building towards a more just and equitable future, where Black lives are truly valued and respected. Join Brown Hope and the Oregon Coalition of Black Trade Unionists in kicking off Black History Month with a special panel on February 5th called "A New Generation of Black Voices."
More events to come on Feb. 12, 19, and 26.
Informational Picket at Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center
Monday, February 9
After nearly a year of bargaining we are still waiting for Kaiser to move on our national agreement and get back to the table with the over 60,000 workers who are collectively bargaining as a part of the Alliance of Healthcare Unions. At this picket we intend to raise the profile of our issues and communicate with our patients and the public about what is at stake in this fight for the future of healthcare. Please RSVP here!
MUST READ
OHSU researchers authorize strike
February 4, 2026 | Northwest Labor Press“We’re sympathetic to the pressure being placed on labs by the federal funding landscape, but we will not allow OHSU to settle this contract by locking in continued wage stagnation for our members.”
OREGON LABOR NEWS
January 30, 2026 | OPB
The proposal is part of a package of bills that attempt to bolster the rights of immigrants targeted by the federal government’s deportation campaign, which Democrats have called a top priority for the current short session.
FEDERAL ATTACKS
Federal judge restricts agents’ use of tear gas, munitions against crowds at Portland ICE facility
February 3, 2026 | Oregon Capital ChronicleThe order from U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon is part of an ongoing lawsuit against the federal government brought by protesters and freelance journalist.
Thousands of labor union members march to South Portland ICE facility
January 31, 2026 | KATU
"This is like the big moral question of our time. Are we gonna let secret police kill people right in front of us? Are we gonna let them take our friends and neighbors right out in front of us? Or are we gonna stand up and say, 'that's not okay, we don't accept it.' We won't allow it to happen in our town."
ATTACKS ON IMMIGRANTS
U.S. citizen injured by federal agents in Salem who demanded to see “papers,” union says
January 31, 2026 | Salem Reporter
Service Employees International Union Local 503 said the woman, a union member, was driving to run errands when four agents stopped her on a Salem street. The agents identified themselves as federal law enforcement, according to the union’s statement.
LABOR & TECHNOLOGY
Labor leaders blast Gavin Newsom over AI, demand more regulation
February 4, 2026 | Politico
“White collar work will probably be the first tranche, but every job across sectors will be impacted,” Shuler told POLITICO. “If we don’t put the guardrails in place, this will be NAFTA 2.0.”