Jewish Doctor Granted Union Exemption Over Religious Beliefs

A Jewish doctor secured an exemption from union membership and fees following objections rooted in his religious beliefs. Dr. Jacob Agronin, employed at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, achieved this through support from America First Legal (AFL). The group addressed the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR), Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1957, requesting that Agronin be excused from union obligations.

AFL highlighted the union’s positions on Israel, noting endorsements of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement and claims against Israel. CIR’s collective bargaining agreement with Temple University Hospital required union membership or fee payments, according to AFL.

A Temple University Hospital physician was granted a religious exemption from union membership and fees. (Jessica Kourkounis/Reuters)

The case centered on Title VII issues. Megan Redshaw, AFL’s counsel, emphasized that Dr. Agronin wasn’t challenging the union’s political expressions. His issue was with financially supporting views that conflicted with his faith.

The union confirmed in an Oct. 9 letter that Agronin had not signed a membership card or paid dues. Redshaw conveyed that no fees would be deducted from his salary, respecting his religious reasons for avoiding union participation.

Dr. Agronin referenced Jewish law and beliefs when explaining the conflict. CIR, representing over 40,000 resident physicians, claims its dues support political activities unbeknownst to new members. Nevertheless, CIR maintains its role in enhancing pay and working conditions.

In May 2024, CIR adopted resolutions related to Israel. These included not endorsing candidates who received donations from pro-Israel groups and supporting a ceasefire.

Following the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, CIR expressed condolences and called for humanitarian actions in Gaza. Agronin criticized the statement, saying it equated perpetrators and victims.

Redshaw encouraged other physicians with religious objections to seek full exemptions. She noted that in some cases, union fees might be redirected to charity, often aligned with union beliefs.