As students of Chemeketa Paramedic Class 73, we've diligently committed our time, efforts, and personal resources toward our education and the welfare of our community. Over the past school year, hundreds of hours have been spent in hospital clinical time and rigorous studies. Our actions are not merely for academic advancement, but driven by a desire to serve others, specifically during urgent times when our community needs us most. 

Our ongoing educational journey is now threatened by the potential strike of the college's union. Without the presence of a fair contract, we face potentially irrevocable interruptions in our studies. If the strike continues for more than 30 days, we would be forced to restart our program under Oregon Health Association standards due to the delay in education. This disruption implicates not only our future careers but the healthcare support desperately needed in Oregon. 

The instructors and faculty in our program are so incredibly valuable within their role in the success of the program. All the instructors are very passionate and experienced professionals with a vast sum of real world experience. This strike will not just affect us within the paramedic program, but all of Chemeketa Community College including Fire, Police, and Nursing students. No community college employee union in Oregon has ever gone on strike, this will be the first incidence of its kind. 

Our state is already experiencing a dire shortage of paramedics. With the strike, these shortages could be amplified, jeopardizing public safety and the welfare of our community at large. It's crucial that an agreement is reached to prevent the strike or at least, secure an exemption for emergency service and healthcare students like us. We cannot risk losing the education that we've invested thousands of dollars and countless hours in, all built upon our drive to save lives and serve our community.

The possibility of the strike not only threatens our personal lives and careers, but also the future of public safety. For both our sakes and the communities we aspire to serve, we urge for a quick resolution. Sign our petition and help us, help you. Keep us in school, keep us moving forward, and keep our community safe. Your support is critical to our cause.

For more information about the strike read this article: With a year of negotiations and no deal, Chemeketa tries new tack with faculty