Healthcare workers at Kaiser Permanente facilities across Hawaii took to the streets on December 5, 2025, to express their demands for improved wages and better staffing conditions amidst ongoing contract talks. According to Hawaii News Now, over 2,000 workers participated in the rallies, which took place on multiple islands, including Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. The workers, represented by UNITE HERE Local 5, are seeking a new contract that addresses concerns about pay, particularly given Hawaii’s high cost of living, and staffing levels, which they say impact patient care.
The core of the conflict appears to be centered around financial compensation and working conditions. The union contends that their members are paid significantly less than their mainland counterparts performing similar work. Furthermore, a Civil Beat article from October 2025 highlighted the workers' claims that understaffing has led to increased stress and challenges in providing adequate patient care. The union claims that Kaiser Permanente has resources, but is choosing not to use them for improved staffing. Kaiser, in a statement, has maintained that their current offer provides competitive wages and benefits. However, the union is pushing for stronger enforcement of agreed-upon staffing levels and more control over how time with patients is scheduled.
With contract talks ongoing, the outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on thousands of healthcare workers and the quality of care provided to Kaiser Permanente patients in Hawaii. The situation also reflects broader national trends, where healthcare workers are increasingly advocating for better pay and working conditions.
