Oregon State Graduate Workers Strike Disrupts Learning, Overburdens Faculty
The ongoing Oregon State University graduate workers’ strike, led by OSU’s Coalition of Graduate Employees, has caused significant disruptions across campus, negatively impacting both students and faculty. As the strike drags on, students in departments that heavily rely on graduate teaching assistants have reported noticeable learning loss, while faculty members have been left struggling to cover their absence.
Professors have described being overwhelmed by quadrupled workloads, struggling to keep up with the added responsibilities left behind by striking graduate workers. With teaching assistants refusing to return to work, faculty are being forced to juggle grading, instruction, and student support on top of their existing duties, making it nearly impossible to maintain the quality of education students expect.
Meanwhile, students are feeling the consequences firsthand. Classes have been disrupted, coursework has been delayed, and critical academic support has been lost. Many students who depend on graduate assistants for instruction and guidance have been left without the resources they need to succeed, raising concerns about the long-term impact on their education.
While the union continues to push its demands, the strike has placed an undeniable burden on faculty, students, and the broader university community.
If you are a union member, you can be fined and suffer retaliation for not striking. Learn your rights.
It is important to remember that participation in the strike is voluntary, and no graduate worker is required to walk off the job. Those who choose to continue teaching and supporting students should be able to do so without pressure or retaliation.
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
Source: OPB.org
