Here are the highlights from bargaining this week (see the full update):
- Victory: The university agreed to proposals on Academic Excellence, making explicit in the contract the right for an ASE to meet with their supervisor about changes in their assignment that may have a negative impact on their ability to do their job (e.g. enrollment increases, greater grading responsibilities, etc.).
- Victory: The Union-Management committee (a committee of union members and University representatives) now has the contractual right to meet to discuss issues related to workload and decision processes in hiring, evaluating and reappointing ASEs.
- Setback: The University steadfastly refuses to withdraw their proposal about mandatory fees, which constitute a de facto pay cut, and to raise ASE wages to make UW a leader among peer institutions.
- Setback: The University remains unmoved on micro-aggressions. They do not believe definitions and protections belong in a bargaining agreement and they are not open to training despite the preventative and proactive benefits of training.
As we can see, the “Work-in” action held on March 19th at the office of the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, that was meant to motivate the University to respond to our proposals about Academic Excellence, worked! We have raised the bar with respect to codifying ASE involvement in instructional decisions, creating a new standard for ASEs at other universities to look to when negotiating over their contracts.
But, our work is not over. The University’s posture with regard to key issues like fee waivers makes clear that we must increase the pressure on the University to meet our demands.
Join with other ASEs next week in a Week of Action, where we focus on fees and a fair contract:
Monday, April 13
Vote to authorize a strike if circumstances justify.
Wednesday, April 15 (4:30 p.m. Seattle University)
Rally for a right to a union and a higher minimum wage for all on this national day of action.
UAW Membership Meeting with Special Guest Seattle City Councilmember Kshama Sawant!
Thursday, April 16 (4:30 p.m. in Bagely 154)
Attend for important updates and to plan next steps.
Friday 4/17 (2:00 p.m.)
Occupy Schmitz Hall the day that tuition/fees are due. Send the message: cutting waivers means we can’t afford necessities like rent (we might have to move in)!
Thank you for your continued input and support during these negotiations. If you have questions or comments please email the bargaining committee at bargaining@uaw4121.org.
In solidarity,
UAW 4121 Bargaining Committee