Teamsters-Led Strike Causes Major Disruptions as Clark University Administration Seeks Resolution
The ongoing strike at Clark University, spearheaded by the Teamsters union, has caused significant disruptions to campus operations while prompting heated exchanges between protesters and university officials. Conversely, the university emphasizes its willingness to work to address concerns, even as union bosses continue to create conflict and tension.
Disruptions Escalate Across Campus
The Teamster-fueled strike has led to vocal demonstrations, confrontations with administrators, and disruptions to essential student services. At one point, Clark Provost John Magee had to be escorted by police out of the Shaich Family Alumni and Student Engagement Center (ASEC) to avoid student protesters. Outside the building, picketers gathered along Main Street, chanting, “Do what’s fair, do what’s right, Clark you can end this strike.” Some protesters also targeted Magee directly, shouting, “John Magee, you can’t hide, we can see your greedy side.”
Campus property has also been affected, with picketers writing messages in chalk on sidewalks near the Main Street gates and other campus buildings. Some of the messages included inflammatory slogans such as “F*** You Pay Us” and “Seventeen F*cking Horses, Fithian?”—a direct callout to University President David Fithian.
The strike has even disrupted services meant to support students in need. The Food Insecurity Resistance Movement (FIRM) pantry informed users that Clark student workers employed by Jeremiah’s Inn were withholding their labor, limiting access to this critical resource.
University Works to Address Student Concerns
Despite the disruptions, Clark University officials have reiterated their commitment to working with students to improve conditions. Dean of the College Jennifer Kiem acknowledged student frustrations while maintaining the university’s stance against undergraduate unionization. “We understand and respect that some of our undergraduate students feel strongly about union representation, and we support your right to express those views,” Kiem wrote. “At the same time, the university has a differing view, and it is our responsibility to convey it.”
In an effort to improve relations and meet student needs, Clark has introduced five concrete steps, including facilitated listening sessions, the creation of a Student Employment Advisory Committee, and a student employment satisfaction survey. By the start of the fall 2025 semester, the university plans to provide an actionable plan for improving student employment conditions.
As tensions persist at Clark University, it’s important for teachers, staff, and student workers to understand their rights. While unions pressure members to join strike actions—and may even impose fines on those who refuse—participation is ultimately a personal choice. Thanks to the Supreme Court’s Janus v. AFSCME decision, public employees cannot be forced to remain in a union or pay dues.
Anyone who no longer wishes to support or participate in union-led activities, including strikes, may legally resign their union membership at any time. Doing so allows individuals to continue working without facing union-imposed penalties. Before joining a strike, consider your options—and your rights.
Source: https://thescarlet.org/20436/news/strikeupdates/
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
