But, after months of collective action from UUP and other union members, legislators, faith leaders, students, and community members, SUNY’s closure plan has been stopped.

While we celebrate this win, we must remain ready for our continued fight. The final NYS budget agreement included the creation of a nine-person community advisory board that will help inform decisions about SUNY Downstate Hospital’s future. Moving forward, we will work together to ensure our members’ voices and the community’s needs are heard and taken into account throughout this entire year-long process.

This victory is a testament to the power of solidarity and collective action. Whether you signed petitions, attended rallies, spoke up at community meetings, joined virtual townhalls, contacted legislators, wrote letters, or spread awareness through actions of solidarity – you played a crucial role in this win. It is because of our collective unwavering commitment and dedication that we were able to thwart this ill-conceived closure plan. Together, we have proven we are a force to be reckoned with, and together, we will continue to fight for a better tomorrow.