Mayor McCarthy joins striking home health workers on picket line

Waltham Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy joined striking Mass General Brigham Home Care clinicians on a picket line in Somerville on Monday, voicing support for workers seeking a new contract.

The demonstration took place at MGB’s Assembly Row campus, where clinicians represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association have been on strike since July 8. According to the union, workers want improved staffing levels, manageable caseloads, competitive wages and stronger protections for both patients and caregivers.

In remarks to the crowd, McCarthy connected the issue to her own experience, recalling the care her parents received at home.

“I’m here supporting you because you supported my parents in their house when they needed it the most,” she said. “They need to give you a good contract. You need to be paid for what you’re doing,” including time spent on required paperwork outside of patient visits.

McCarthy also emphasized the distinct role home health clinicians play, often working independently and forming close relationships with patients.

“When somebody comes into the home, they usually come by themselves … and that’s the person that they see and they develop a relationship with that person,” she said. “It’s important that you support each other.”

The picket drew healthcare workers, union members, elected officials and community supporters, many carrying signs calling for a fair contract.

MGB Home Care clinicians will return to work as of 7:59 a.m. Wednesday, according to the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) website. This will conclude a seven-day strike but the clinicians plan to press for a new contract.