Workers at UCSF and other University of California campuses went on strike, alleging the institution was bargaining in bad faith and stifling workers' free speech rights. This protest highlights serious concerns about labor rights and the ethical treatment of workers at the medical center.

Thousands of UCSF workers went on strike on November 20, 2024, protesting alleged unfair labor practices and bad-faith labor negotiations at the medical center. The protest highlights concerns over inadequate worker rights and labor conditions.

A scheduled lecture by Professor Ghannam, which was set to address the health impacts of Israeli policies on Palestinians, was abruptly canceled by UCSF administrative decisions. This act is seen as part of a broader pattern of political censorship targeting critical academic discourse.

House Republicans sent a stern letter to UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood warning that allegations of pervasive antisemitic harassment and intimidation on campus could jeopardize the medical center’s participation in Medicare and Medicaid. The letter demands answers by August 14 regarding measures to address incidents that include antisemitic graffiti, unsettling patient experiences, and hostile workplace behavior, while UCSF has so far offered only a brief acknowledgment of the inquiry.

House Republicans have raised concerns about allegations of antisemitic harassment and discrimination at UCSF, including the presence of an antisemitic encampment and graffiti, warning that failure to adequately address these issues could result in revoking federal funding.

House Energy and Commerce Committee leaders have opened an investigation following multiple reports of antisemitic harassment and intimidation at UCSF Medical Center and its affiliated centers. The investigation highlights allegations that UCSF leadership inadequately addressed complaints, potentially jeopardizing the safety of employees, students, and patients.

Nurse practitioner Bridget Rochios at UCSF faced escalating disciplinary measures for refusing to remove pro-Palestinian pins and symbols, resulting in a shift from a paid suspension to an unpaid leave. This action is viewed as a suppression of political dissent and free expression in the workplace.

Professor Rupa Marya faced punitive measures including paid leave and suspension from UCSF after her social media posts critiquing Israeli policies were labeled as antisemitic. The case has spurred debate over academic freedom and the suppression of politically charged discourse.

At a press conference held at UCSF Parnassus Heights on October 31, 2023, medical professionals, including Dr. Jess Ghannam and Dr. Rupa Marya, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The speakers emphasized the dire humanitarian crisis affecting the delivery of essential healthcare in the conflict zone and underscored a moral obligation for the global medical community to act against the violence.

UCSF Medical Center officials reversed plans for a formal affiliation with Dignity Health following protests by faculty and staff who argued that aligning with the religious health system could compromise patient care by imposing restrictions on women’s reproductive services and LGBTQ care.

In 2019, UCSF Medical Center leaders considered establishing a formal affiliation with the religiously affiliated Dignity Health. Following fierce opposition from doctors, reproductive justice advocates, and LGBTQ communities—who warned that such a partnership might restrict access to comprehensive reproductive and gender-affirming care—the institution backed off the plan. This decision highlights a commitment to safeguarding patient care and upholding inclusive medical practices.