May First - A Time to Remember Labor
May first is a day labor types stop to consider the import of their efforts. It commemorates the Haymarket Massacre in Chicago in 1886--when labor protestors were striking for the right to have an eight-hour day. 
It is nice to recall that, despite labor's declining influence in the United States, this is where the movement was born. Thanks to the work of generations of activists, we have the right to unionize and collectively bargain for better wages and conditions.
Here at PSU-AAUP, we have some work to do on our behalf. Currently, full membership is just around 50% (half our members are fair share). A great many units lack a unit rep--a key figure for organizing. So, if you are a fair share member or work in a unit without a representative, perhaps you could consider taking the next step--sign up as a full member, or consider being a rep. Neither one takes a great deal of effort, and the effect is profound. If we want the administration to take our concerns seriously, we need to show them how committed the membership is.
Recently Michele Gamburd, the lead bargainer on our collective bargaining team, sent out an email with ways to get involved. For this May Day, I'll copy them below.
It is nice to recall that, despite labor's declining influence in the United States, this is where the movement was born. Thanks to the work of generations of activists, we have the right to unionize and collectively bargain for better wages and conditions.Here at PSU-AAUP, we have some work to do on our behalf. Currently, full membership is just around 50% (half our members are fair share). A great many units lack a unit rep--a key figure for organizing. So, if you are a fair share member or work in a unit without a representative, perhaps you could consider taking the next step--sign up as a full member, or consider being a rep. Neither one takes a great deal of effort, and the effect is profound. If we want the administration to take our concerns seriously, we need to show them how committed the membership is.
Recently Michele Gamburd, the lead bargainer on our collective bargaining team, sent out an email with ways to get involved. For this May Day, I'll copy them below.
- Are you a full member of the union? If you’re not sure, you can check your pay stub. If you see a line that reads “AAUP Union Membership Dues,” then you are a full member. If you see a line that reads “AAUP Union Fair Share Deductions,” then you are not a full member. For a few extra dollars a month, you can receive the benefits of membership, including the right to participate in contract ratification votes, run for the Executive Council, and get reimbursed for renting or buying academic regalia for Commencement. See http://www.psuaaup.net/ for more information on membership benefits and for a membership form.
- Interested in doing more? We are recruiting Unit Representatives for some units and members for several committees headed by Executive Council members. Contact me gamburdm(at)pdx(dot)edu, Jonathan Uto utoj(at)pdx(dot)edu or Gary Brodowicz brodowiczg(at)pdx(dot)edu for more information.
Labels: organization
posted by Jeff Alworth at
1:28 PM
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