Just a few weeks ago, your union was focused on negotiating a strong contract, handling grievances, and fielding questions and concerns. Prepping for bargaining and meeting administration every week took up a lot of energy, and elected officials and staff were contemplating timelines and strategy.
It’s an understatement to say that today we find ourselves in a very different landscape.
With COVID-19 spreading rapidly across the U.S., the impact on universities is immediate. Questions and complications arise hour by hour that need urgent yet thoughtful responses. As you know, United Academics is member run and member driven. Faculty officers are elected from across campus. Representatives and stewards are volunteers in your units who answer questions and direct you to resources. In other words, the union is not distinct from its members: you are United Academics and United Academics is you.
To our current members: thank you for your continued support. We know that you have a lot on your plate, and we’re thankful for your feedback and insights as we try to map this uncharted terrain. Your support during bargaining so far and continuing into the current crisis has made our position stronger and improved our chances of reaching favorable agreements with the administration.
If you’re not a current member, we hope you’re considering membership. As a member you ensure your voice is heard. In addition, you gain the right to vote on our constitution, bylaws, and dues rate; to ratify collective bargaining agreements (contracts); to run for office; and to vote in officer elections. Paying your dues (1.1%) keeps UA a well-functioning and viable organization. Click HERE to become a member.
We hope that over the years, and especially this year in both bargaining and crisis response, we’ve demonstrated our value to you. We will keep working for you and your working conditions, along with students and their learning conditions, but we can only be successful with your input and help. Please reach out with your ideas, questions, concerns, comments, and whatever else you have to offer so we can continue doing this crucial work.